Steve Nagel is as close to a super fan as it is going to get. As president of the men’s club soccer team, co-founder of the kilt-wearing, soccer-crazed group Legion 1818 and a student-athlete trainer, the senior is one of Saint Louis University’s most loyal athletic supporters.
Nagel built the men’s club soccer team into what it is today and revolutionized fan participation at Billiken soccer games. He was presented the Spirit Group and Athletic Training Award on April 18 for his school pride and involvement with the training staff of almost every SLU athletic team.
“Everyone agrees that Steve is the workhorse of the [club soccer] team,” said Terence McAuliffe, sophomore teammate and future club president. “He is usually in the best shape out of anyone, and, on and off the field, he gives everything that he has.”
During his sophomore year, Nagel assumed many of the administrative duties of the club soccer team. He was officially elected president of the team in 2006.
“Initially, coaching was difficult,” Nagel said. “With experience, however, I believe I have learned how to take control and gain the respect of my teammates.”
Given Nagel’s status as a coach and player, he said he has to make difficult decisions regarding who makes the team and who gets playing time. McAuliffe, however, said Nagel has remained honest and fair in his decisions, despite close friendships.
“It can be hard to find a balance,” Nagel said. “I want to play every minute of every game, but also need to be humble enough to admit I’m not always fit enough to do that.”
The number of students trying out for the club team has steadily increased each year, with nearly 70 guys going for 25 open spots this past year.
“In all three years of being a coach, running tryouts were the toughest thing I had to do,” Nagel said. “It is definitely a difficult learning experience. For example, I was forced to cut five returners this past year. Luckily, I have not ruined any friendships.”
In addition to increased interest in the club, the team has also experienced increased success. With a win over Purdue and two ties in games against Loyola Chicago and Washington University in St. Louis, the team finished this year’s season as co-champions of the Wash. U. Invitational Tournament. The championship game was cancelled due to inclement weather. Overall, the team finished 8-3-2.
“I think the team is set for a bright and interesting transition,” Nagel said. “With the returning juniors and other skilled players, I expect the team to continue to succeed. I believe [McAuliffe] as well as the other leaders will do a great job of guiding and building the team.”
McAuliffe said that next year’s team aims to qualify for the regional club soccer tournament and attend a tournament hosted by the University of Colorado-Boulder. Currently, CU holds a women’s club soccer tournament, which is considered to be one of the premiere tournaments in the country by coaches.
Men’s club soccer is not the only organization that has seen increased membership. Legion 1818 continues to grow in reputation and participation since its inception two seasons ago.
“I am really excited to see how Legion takes off in the next few years,” Nagel said. “Legion is being left in the hands of some great, soccer-enthused guys.”
Although graduating at the end of this semester, Nagel said he expects to return in years to come-body paint and all-to cheer on the Division I soccer team at Robert R. Hermann stadium.
“Club soccer and Legion 1818 arguably have been my best and favorite experiences throughout my four years at SLU,” Nagel said. “Many of my best friends and memories have come from soccer, and I’ll miss that.”
