This year’s soccer field, Herman Stadium, is flooded with blue and white, soccer players being led by head coach, Mike McGinty.
With a history of holding the title for winning more men’s college championships than any other school in Division I, SLU is looking to continue the intensity.
McGinty established similar goals with the team for 2010-2011, which are posted in the locker room as a reminder of where dedication and hard work will take them.
McGinty comes after eight years as associate head coach at the University of Virginia. recruiter, where he won a title.
He graduated from Wake Forrest in 1995 before having a succesful professional career with the Charlotte Kickers and DC United.
The new Billiken head coach has one mantra: “things that can be achieved with support. Bringing together the [St. Louis] community, have them behind the boys.”
McGinty began his regime as head coach in the spring with conditioning and weight training for the 29 players, with strength coach Scott Scarland. The players had to be prepared for the fall, he said.
An imposing figure, McGinty emulates his coaches and the impact they had on him. While doing likes doing things his way, “it takes everybody to get there,” he said.
Perhaps more than anything, the new coach, only the sixth in school history, realizes the tradition of SLU soccer. With 11 titles, the Billikens have amassed a very dedicated fanbase across the nation, one that does not enjoy losing.
“Every school has a certain rhythm of operating,” McGinty said. “I beginning to figure out [SLU’s] rhythm.”
Ironically, the man who McGinty replaced, Dan Donigan, suggested he interview for the job.
“I was excited for the opportunity and the potential,” he said. “I got lucky. Fortunately [athletic director] Chris May and [University President] Father Biondi took a chance on me.”
McGinty’s presence has already affected recruiting. Freshman Sito Sasieta says his mind was changed when SLU announced the hiring of McGinty.
“In my mind I had already decided on a different school other than SLU, but when I talked to Coach McGinty I knew that if I was serious about soccer I needed to come here. I’ve never played for another coach so driven towards winning. I’m willing to bet there is not another coach more competitive.”
As for the fans, McGinty tells them to expect a whole new game on the field.
“Expect exciting games, more interaction … more energy.. We will do our best to represent the school.”
