Within this section

Athletics

Meramec offers intercollegiate competition in soccer, basketball, baseball and wrestling for men, and softball, soccer, volleyball and basketball for women. Men and women are also encouraged to participate on the cheerleading squad. Meramec is committed to providing quality opportunities in athletics that enhance the student's educational experience.

Meramec teams have won national championships in men's and women's soccer as well as baseball. In total, there have been 62 top 10 finishes at nationals. A total of 224 student-athletes have earned All-America honors and 40 have earned Academic All-America recognition.

St. Louis Community College athletic teams compete as members of the National Junior College Athletic Association and the Midwest Community College Athletic Conference. The Athletics department offers scholarship opportunities for men and women to participate in eight different intercollegiate sports. Students interested in eligibility requirements should contact the respective head coach or the athletics director.

News and Notes

Last Updated: November 20, 2009

The women's basketball team recorded their first victory with an exciting 72-70 outing against Florissant Valley. Congratulations to Coach Ethridge on her first win at Meramec. The team plays Olney on Saturday.

In men's action, the team fell to 2-3 on the year after being defeated by Brehm Prep 78-74. They play the Lindenwood JV team tomorrow at home.
 
The the wrestling team competes Sunday in the University of Missouri Open.

---

Archives of previous news releases

 

November 18, 2009
Magic Earn First ‘W’ In 72-70 Win Over Flo Valley

Even against a STLCC-Florissant Valley squad that has traditionally been easy pickings for the Magic, the season’s first win would not come easy for the STLCC-Meramec women’s basketball team and first year head coach            Shelly Ethridge.

A determined Flo Valley team created four separate tie scores in the final few minutes, including a 68-68 score. With 19 seconds left in the game, 6’1” freshman Kasei Evans (Hazelwood Central) powered her way to the basket for a layup and was fouled, putting Meramec up for good on their way to a 72-70 final score and first win of the season (1-3).

“It was a thrilling victory for us to get our first “w” this year, it was big,” said Coach Ethridge. “The first one’s always the toughest one. I’m real proud of our girls for hanging in there. I was real happy with the crowd and our girls were real excited about playing at home.”

Evans finished the game with 17 points, as did freshman forward Courtney Panus (Pattonville). However, the lead scorer with 20 points was yet another transplant from the prep Suburban North Conference, sophomore            Aretasha Barry, a Hazelwood East graduate.

“This is what we expect out of Artie,” said Ethridge. “She’s one of our true offensive threats and we hope that she can continue and be that great defender that she can be.”

The game, tied at the half at 31-31, saw Meramec pull ahead in the second half to a double digit lead, only to have the Fury battle back each time. With the game knotted at 66, Panus scored on a layup for a 68-66 edge with 1:07 left. Panus had a complete game, not only scoring 17 points but collecting 9 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3 steals.

“Courtney is really developing into a nice player for us and she’s going to get better and better each game, getting that experience,” said Ethridge.

The win lifts the team to a 1-3 mark following a pressure-cooker of a season opener in the Crowder Classic Tournament in Neosho, MO. The tourney features some of the toughest junior college squads from around the state.

“It was a real eye opener and a shock for a lot of our younger kids,” said Ethridge. “And it was good for us to gain this experience, kind of open our eyes to work harder in practice, ‘Ok, now we understand coach that we have a lot more to do,’ it was good for us.”

Also good for the Magic is its depth. The team has 16 players and talent at every position, including starting guard Brandi Duncan (Licking, MO), a three-time All-Conference honoree in high school who guided her team to a district championship last season. Duncan has total confidence in Meramec.

 “We’re going to be really good, once we get everything together we have everything a team could possibly need - we have it, we just need to put it all together,” said Duncan.

The Magic return four sophomores in Barry, guard Suelin Tang (Trinidad and Tobago), forward Ashton Whitehurst (Francis Howell North), and guard Ora Spivey (Hazelwood East.)

“She (Spivey) is one of those kids that can really bring such an uplift to the team with her enthusiasm and passion,” said Ethridge “She’s really an energy booster for us, great defensive skills, great quickness.”

That energy is needed in the fast-paced, intense practices coach “E” and new assistant coach Melanie Marcy are known for. The duo have made an immediate impact with the players, and in a positive way.

“Our coaches are awesome, they’re bringing us together,” said Duncan. “Very intense practices, lots of running, we are definitely in shape. We respect them highly.” Barry added, “She’s (Ethridge) very disciplined and very hard working but we respect her, she’s real good. It’s pretty hard but we enjoy it. It pays off, hard work shows in the game.”

The Magic are hoping hard work will show results by February come playoff time. “I think we’re going to go really far once we get everything together,” said Duncan. “That’s what I plan on happening and I know everyone else does too.”

 

STLCC-Meramec Wrestlers Hope Pounds Add Up To Wins

For the high-powered STLCC-Meramec wrestling team, less may mean more. In a sport where struggling to cut weight is a way of life, two key Magic grapplers will have to work to add pounds to make their weight class. But, they’re willing to do what it takes for the team’s success. And, apparently it’s paying off - in the latest NJCAA poll, the Magic are the number one ranked team in the country.

For the 2009 Maine Wrestler Of The Year, Travis Spencer (Belfast High), it’s a small step up from the 189 lb. class he’s competed in for the last three years to the 197 lb. plateau. But even an eight pound increase can mean a ton of difference on the mat.

“It’s tough but I’m right there, “said Spencer. “I’m giving up strength a little bit but mostly just the weight when they get on top. I just start moving them because I’m quicker for a guy my size. So I just move them, take them down, and try to ride them out.”

Thinking fast on his feet is nothing new to Spencer. The four-time state high school champion finished his prep career with a 185-10 record, losing only one match his last three years. He’s picked up that success at Meramec, earning a fifth place medal at the tough Oklahoma City University Open Tourney last weekend (Nov. 8). In it, he faced several NCAA Division I grapplers.

“It’s tough, it’s a lot different, everybody’s good,” said Spencer. “This past weekend, I beat one kid pretty bad and then I pinned another one but other than that everybody’s been tough. Each match has been real close. It’s a lot different than in high school because in high school you can catch anybody at any time; in college it’s real hard to catch somebody.”

Mark “Sharky” Slyter (Quincy High) can relate to that. The former Kansas state champion grappled at the 119 lb. class as a senior last year and is now bumping up to the collegiate minimum 125 class. Sharky won the Kansas prep title while still a sophomore, and in three years set a new state mark for single season (274) and career (almost 600) takedowns. Like Spencer, he knows that giving up weight means giving up some muscle.

“Giving up strength in college is no fun but it’s something I’m just trying to adapt to,” said Slyter.  “I like to go out there and get in people’s face and just get after them. I like to score from my feet. I’m not a big mat wrestler, I just like to go out there and get a lot of takedowns.”

Sharky earned his national reputation as a senior when his family moved to California and he wrestled outside of high school in national freestyle Greco style tournaments. But now, he’s learning to adapt once more to the collegiate style where riding time points can be the difference between a win and a loss.

“Ever since I was little I could just take people down, I didn’t do much mat wrestling,” said Sharky. “With college I’m really trying to adapt to that and learn mat wrestling and pick that up because that’s something that’s real vital with riding time.”

Slyter received a “rude” welcome to the new level at the season debut Lindenwood Open Tournament Oct. 30. In his first match he squared off with Jarrod Patterson from the University of Oklahoma, one of the top NCAA Division I wrestlers in the nation.

“I didn’t really know what to expect. I wasn’t really nervous, I just went in there to see what I could do,” said Sharky. “Basically I’m just going in there and getting better each week. I’m seeing I can compete, I’m right there with all these D I kids, one and two points away and I would have beat some DI kids this weekend.”

One sophomore who knows exactly what he can do is Craig Chiles (Hillsboro). Chiles was a national qualifier for Meramec last season and is again wrestling in the loaded 133 lb. class this year. He has started off strong for the team, winning a fifth place medal at the Lindenwood Open, and a third place at the Oklahoma City Open. Chiles’ approach to the new season is a simple one.

“I know what I’m walking into, I know what to expect,” said Chiles. “I know what I have to work for and who I need to beat.  I like to bang with people. I’m a fighter; I’m a scrapper, that’s how I do it.”

While Slyter and Spencer may be giving up a slight strength advantage, Chiles feels strength is his edge, following a summer of intense conditioning and weights. And, the results have already been reflected early in this season.

“Last year I only had two pins the whole season and this year I’ve already had four in just two tournaments so far. I think it’s the strength and conditioning,” said Chiles.

The talent-laden Meramec squad, hailed by Wrestling USA Magazine as the number one non-Division I recruiting class in the nation, has its sights set on February and the NJCAA National Tournament. The team came tantalizingly close to its first national championship in 2007-’08 with a second place team trophy. This may be the year they finally bring home the big prize.

“I’m very excited, that’s why I came here,” said Slyter. “If everyone pushes it like they should, everyone does what they have to do in the classroom and outside the wrestling room, inside the wrestling room’s the least of our worries.”

Meramec Upsets Div. I Kaskaskia -  2 Points At A Time

It was a unique win - 77 points scored by the STLCC-Meramec men’s basketball team without a single made three pointer. Yet, the Magic will be happy nonetheless to take their 77-62 upset victory over previously undefeated Div. I Kaskaskia College (IL). The Magic came out fast in the first half.

“That was one of the best!” said thirty three year head coach Randy Albrecht. “Defensively, we had them a little befuddled. We tried to take number three out of the game, Daniel Barnes, by having a man deny him the ball all over, including at half court, and I think that really affected them. They weren’t sure how they wanted to attack. Then the team got confused, and they tried to take him out, and then we changed our defense again.”

The result was an astounding 41-15 halftime lead for Meramec, one that created a dilemma in the halftime locker room for the coaching staff who, before the game, told the Magic they would be in for the fight of their lives.

“When we got so far ahead it was like we lost a little trust,” said Albrecht. “Coach, you said it was going to be tough? We’re kicking these guys’ butts.’  So, it’s hard to fool them again at halftime into thinking that this game isn’t over. I didn’t think it was over.”

And the veteran’s sixth sense was right. Kaskaskia came storming back in the second half, reducing Meramec’s 26 point halftime lead to just nine at the 7:52 mark with a 61-52 score. “With seven minutes to go I looked at (assistant coach Ken) Libby and said, ‘You know, we could blow this,” said Albrecht.

But, a determined Magic squad held off Kaskaskia over the final several minutes. Meramec’s twin towers of sophomore center Dallis Johnson (Lafayette) and forward Josh Dale (Affton) combined for 50 of Meramec’s points with Dale scoring 26 and Johnson 24. The two were fed a steady diet of lob passes by the guards for easy penetration lay ups.

“I thought guards (Eric) Kiminau and Dietrick (Sooter) did a pretty decent job of handling the ball for us and getting the ball down court. They both made some nice passes for us and got us some easy buckets,” said Albrecht.

Sooter, a freshman guard from Pierce City, MO, brought high energy onto the floor as a reserve in the first half, picking off four steals in the half and getting a pair of assists. He finished with five steals and five assists, as well as four points.

“I am starting to learn how to play with the big guys and the trust is becoming stronger,” said Sooter. “So when I see them I trust them to turn my decision into a good one, such as the long pass. I just looked at a point and aimed at it and then he (Dallis Johnson) went up and made a good catch which led to a bucket.”

Johnson also collected 10 rebounds for a double-double. Sophomore forward John Alexander (Oakville) also had 10 rebounds. The Magic improve to 2-2 on the season with the win.

Nov. 11, 2009
Magic Fall To Lewis and Clark 66-58 At Edward Jones Dome

The STLCC-Meramec men’s basketball team dropped a 66-58 decision to Lewis and Clark College Tuesday, Nov. 10 at the Edward Jones Dome. The loss was the first suffered to Lewis and Clark in three games at the Dome since the mini-series began in 2004.

The game was a close one until the final two minutes when the Trailblazers pulled away. Meramec held a slim, one point edge at halftime, 33-32. However, with 2:20 left, Lewis and Clark opened up a 59-53 lead. The Magic made a run on the strength of a basket by freshman forward Allen Hadzimahovic (Fox) who was fouled as well on the play. He sank the free throw to make it a 59-56 deficit, but that would be as close as Meramec would get.

Hadzimahovic was the game’s lead scorer with 18 points, including 10 for 10 from the free throw line and has been in double digits scoring all three games thus far. He recorded a double-double with 10 boards on the night. Meramec’s Dallis Johnson (Lafayette) helped control rebounding with eight rebounds.

Johnson finished with 15 points, while sophomore forward Josh Dale (Affton) scored 14. The Magic drop to 1-2 on the year and play host on Saturday (Nov. 13) to Kaskaskia (IL) College at 3 p.m.

Meramec Magic Athletic News                                                              November, 2009

Men’s Soccer Wins Region XVI Crown;
Smugala Named Coach Of Year

It was well worth the wait for the STLCC-Meramec men’s soccer team as they captured their first Region XVI championship since 2000 with a 2-1 win over Maple Woods Sunday (Nov. 1) in Kansas City. The Magic, now 16-3-1, advanced to the title game with a convincing 3-0 victory over Blue River in Friday’s semi-finals.

“It’s awesome,” said head coach Brian Smugala. “I actually think the win represents anyone who’s ever played for the program while I’ve been coaching. I’ve already got several calls and texts from kids who are former players that are really excited. I wish all of them could have experienced what the kids this year experienced.”

Smugala was named the Region XVI Coach of the Year and wasn’t the only Magic member to take home honors. Sophomore forward Almin Sabotic (Mehlville) was named the Region XVI Player of the Year and a first team All-Region selection. Sabotic proved the voters right, scoring both goals in the title game, the first one just nine minutes into the game to grab an important lead.

“It was a cross from the left side, Jake (Macker) played a long ball from the far post,” said Sabotic. “I was just there at the right time, it was very exciting for me. I think the first goal was very important, it calmed us down the entire game, we had ball possession, we were moving the ball much more and they were chasing a lot more.”
  
Sabotic’s second goal came with ten minutes left in the first half when the Magic used the fast break to their advantage over Maple Woods. “It was a free kick; Marc (Bowron) played a long ball. I was one-on-one with the guy, it got over his head, the goalie came out. I just put my head in there, thank God it went in,” said Sabotic.

Bowron (Abrerdeen, Scotland), a defender, earned second team All-Region kudos for his determined play, like an assist to Sabotic on the second and game-winning goal. However, he had to dig deep in the final few minutes.

“In the second half they pressured us a lot,” said Bowron. “We were on our back foot for maybe 20-25 minutes but I felt our boys battled for every inch of the ball. We just battled and battled and came out with a victory and that’s what our team’s about.”

Much of the battle was in the midfield where Justin Billmeyer (Gibault) and Pat Swaney (CBC) controlled play most of the game. Billmeyer won first team All-Region honors for his consistent quality play throughout the year. The sophomore, along with sophomore goalie Chris Eason (Lindbergh), had to prove his mettle after Maple Woods scored a disputed goal with nearly 22 minutes left in the game.

“After that I was just trying to come out and take as many opportunities to take the ball from the defense so they didn’t have to worry about it,” said Eason. “It ended up they didn’t really have any big chances and we ended up winning the game.”

Meramec now hosts the District Tournament on Friday and Saturday, Nov. 6-7. Laramie County, Wyoming will play a regional winner from Kansas on Friday, and the Magic will face the winner of that game on Saturday. The team that emerges will head to the NJCAA National Tournament Nov. 18-22 in Trenton, New Jersey. Optimism is not in short supply for this high-achieving squad.

“If we can get past this district round, anything can happen,” said Bowron. “The national championship’s there for the taking. It’s up to us if we battle and play as well as we’ve done this weekend we can win anything.”

Meramec To Battle Lewis and Clark At Edward Jones Dome Nov. 10

The STLCC-Meramec College men’s basketball team will battle the Lewis and Clark squad in an early season conference match up Tuesday, Nov. 10 at 7:00 at the Edward Jones Dome in Downtown St. Louis. The game serves as a technical rehearsal for NCAA officials and CBS television personnel for next March when St. Louis plays host to a NCAA regional. Admission is free with open seating.

Meramec head coach Randy Albrecht, in his 33rd year at the helm, is looking to guide the Magic to their 25th straight winning season as he closes in on his 700th career victory.  The team finished 23-9 a year ago and returns size and height, including 6’7” center Dallis Johnson (Lafayette High), an All-Conference and All-Region honoree as a freshman.  Johnson averaged 11.5 points and 6 rebounds last year.

Also back is 6’4” power forward John Alexander (Oakville High) who sparkled off the bench last season, contributing over 6 points and 6 rebounds a game. Another sophomore forward with proven ability is 6’4” Josh Dale (Affton High). Dale added 8 points and 5 rebounds as a freshman two years ago, before red shirting last year. New to the mix is 6’6” forward Alen Hadzimahovic (Fox) who averaged a double-double as a prep senior - 20 points and 10 rebounds a game.

The guard position features point guard Dietrick Sooter who can drain the three point shot. As a prep senior earlier this year at Pierce City (MO) High he set a new MSHSAA record with 10 three’s in one half. He also recorded a 65 point night in sectional playoffs, fifth highest in MSHSAA history. Dylan Briscoe, a 6’2” guard, (Francis Howell Central) is also a three point threat - he sank 61 three’s for Howell Central last season while averaging 11 points a game.

Also in the Meramec mix is Josh Kane, a 6’2” guard from Howell North, who averaged 13 points a year ago. Guard  Eric Kimminau enters at the top of his game - his prep Borgia High squad won a state championship in March. Kimminau is also a skilled three point shooter; hitting 65 three’s as a senior at Borgia. He joins guards Julian Gilliam (Parkway South) and Manny Crossland (Wellston).

The Trailblazers are led by new head coach Deon Thomas, the career scoring leader for the University of Illinois. He succeeds longtime Trailblazer head coach Doug Stotler, who moved on to become Athletic Director at Jefferson College.

 

 Magic Wrestlers Open Season At Lindenwood Open; 3 Place

The STLCC-Meramec wrestling team opened the season Oct. 30 in the Lindenwood Open. The mega-event not only featured wall-to-wall wrestling on six mats all day and evening, but hundreds of wrestlers from all levels of programs in the Midwest.

Placing and taking home medals were Travis Hammons (Hubbarb, IL) at 165 pounds with a fourth place finish,      Craig Chiles (Hillsboro) with a fifth place medal at 133 pounds, and Seth Horner (Perry, Ohio) also with a fifth place finish at 149 pounds.

Meramec also boasts returning 2008 national champion Deron Winn (Liberty, MO) at 189 pounds, as well as local former prep stars Nicholas Hoehn (Framington), Anthony James, Jr. (Holt), Lee Lindsay (McCluer South), and     Jon Vogt (Ste. Genevieve).

The Magic are led by interim head coach Nick Vogt, a two-time All-American with Meramec in 2002 and ‘03.

 

Women’s Soccer Is Upset In Region XVI Semi-Final 1-0

The top-seeded STLCC-Meramec women’s soccer team was upset in the semi-final game of the Region XVI Tournament Saturday, Oct. 31 by STLCC-Forest Park, 1-0. The Magic had defeated the Highlanders twice during the regular season.

However, bad luck factored into the loss. In the first 10 minutes of the game, sophomore captain Casey Caldwell (Lindbergh) suffered a knee injury and was forced to leave the game for the remainder of the evening. Caldwell is the team’s leading scorer with 10 goals and 2 assists.

The game stayed scoreless until 17 minutes were left in the second half when a penalty kick foul was called against Meramec for a Forest Park player being taken down inside the goalie box. The Highlanders converted the PK for the game’s only score.

Meramec finished the season at 7-6. Coach Jeff Karl, completing his 27th season, is the national women’s soccer career wins leader with 326 victories.

 

Oct. 28, 2009
 
Top-Seeded Meramec Soccer Squads Head To Semi-Finals
 
The STLCC-Meramec men's and women's soccer squads both enter the Region XVI Tournament semi-finals this Friday (Oct. 30) as the top seeds. The men's team, boasting a 14-3-1 record, takes on Blue River (11-5-1) in Kansas City. The women's team, at 7-5, faces fourth seed STLCC-Forest Park (7-10-1) at St. Charles Community College. Both semi-final games are at 2 p.m..

The men's team advanced after crushing STLCC-Florissant Valley (0-18-1) 11-0 in quarterfinal action Tuesday. The game was shortened by officials when they declared the rain-drenched field unplayable after 70 minutes of play. In that game, freshman midfielder Kyle Merry (Ft. Zumwalt West) scored four goals, while sophomore midfielder Marc Bowron (Aberdeen, Scotland) had the hat trick with three scores.

Captain Almin Sabotic (Mehlville) had a goal and four assists. He leads the team in scoring with 11 goals and 8 assists. Sophomore goalie Chris Eason (Lindbergh) recorded the shutout. Earlier this season, Meramec defeated Blue River 1-0. Looming in the other semi-final, second-seeded Crowder (8-7-1) takes on third seeded Maple Woods (12-4-1). The title game is Sunday, Nov. 1 at 1 p.m. at Excelsior Springs High School in the Kansas City area.

The women's team will be trying to beat the Highlanders for the third time this year, having bested them 3-2, and 1-0. Casey Caldwell (Lindbergh) has been the squad's main offense with 10 goals and 2 assists. Goalie Katie Joliff, (Northwest) last week's NJCAA National Goalie of the Week, has been a big part of the Magic's success with four shutouts in a five game span, all wins.

In the other semi-final, third seeded Maple Woods (12-2-1) faces tourney host second seed St. Charles (8-5-1). The title game is slated for Saturday. 

Soccer Squads Battle For Top Post-Season Seeds In Rescheduled Matches
 
Perhaps the fourth time will be the charm for both the STLCC-Meramec men's and women's soccer teams as they try to finally defeat both the recent inclement weather and Kansas City area foe Maple Woods. The teams will play rescheduled matches on Thursday (Oct. 22) with the men's team playing at 2 p.m. and the women's squad at 4 p.m. The matches have been postponed on three previous dates due to weather.

At stake in each contest will be the top seed in the Region XVI Tournament that begins next week. The men's team enters Thursday's action at 12-3-1 overall and 5-0-1 in regional games. Maple Woods is 10-2-1 on the season and 4-1 in regional matches.

The Magic women's team is 6-5 overall and 3-0 in regional contests. Maple Woods is 11-1-1 on the year and 2-1 in Region XVI games. Therefore, Thursday's winner takes the top seed.

Both Meramec's men's and women's teams are virtually identical in scoring - each team's top scorer is a sophomore captain forward with nine goals each. Almin Sabotic (Mehlville) leads the men while Casey Caldwell (Lindbergh) leads the women's squad.

Oct. 14, 2009

STLCC-Meramec Women’s Soccer Team Wins 4th Straight

Having found their stride, the STLCC-Meramec women’s soccer team won their fourth straight match Monday (Oct. 12), defeating St. Charles College 3-1. The win lifts the Magic over the .500 mark for the first time this season at 6-5.
Meramec spread out the scoring against St. Charles with freshman midfielder Amy Guarino (Summit), freshman midfielder Jessica Frazier (Pacific), and sophomore back Chelsea Tetrault (Parkway North) all delivering goals.
Also, sophomore forward Casey Caldwell (Lindbergh) contributed two assists. Caldwell is the team’s leading scorer with nine goals.

Sophomore goalie Katie Joliff (Northwest) has been a big part of the success. The goal allowed to St. Charles is just the first goal she’s surrendered in four games, coming off of three consecutive shutouts.

The Magic were cancelled Wednesday, Oct. 14 against defending national champions Lewis and Clark due to inclement weather.

Magic Soccer Squad Hopes To Lock Up Top Region Seed
 
When the STLCC-Meramec men’s soccer team faces Maple Woods Thursday (Oct. 8) in a rescheduled match of an earlier rain out, a top seed in the Region XVI Tournament will be at stake and a possible first round bye. The Magic enter the game 5-0-1 in regional games that count toward the post season seeding,

Maple Woods is 10-0-1 overall and 4-0 in Region XVI matches. Last year, Meramec suffered a 3-0 drubbing at the hands of the Monarchs and have much to prove against a talented Maple Woods team. But the Magic have plenty of talent of their own, including sophomore scoring leader and team captain Almin Sabotic (Mehlville). Sabotic scored the game-winner Saturday (Oct. 3) in a 1-0 win over Blue River and leads Meramec with 9 goals. He is 7 goals shy of the all-time Meramec two year scoring record of 29 held jointly by Mike Beck (1971-’72) and Senad Hot (2000-’01).

“I don't think much about the scoring record, I only look forward to winning games this season,” said Sabotic. “It would be a great honor for me if I do get the school record because there have been many great players at Meramec before me. I have a mindset that in every game I want to score a goal. Scoring goals is great but winning games means much more to me and to this team.”

And win they have, with their 10-2-1 mark. One possible post season key for the Magic in ultimately making it to nationals is the fact that the second round of the post season, districts, would be hosted at Meramec if the Magic can make it through the Region XVI Tournament. Meramec is 3-0-1 at home this season.

Another part of the one-two scoring punch has been the emergence of sophomore Justin Billmeyer (Gibault) as a constant scoring threat. Billmeyer was recently shifted from defense to midfield and the results were immediate. He had the game-winning assist to Sabotic over Blue River and has 3 goals with 2 assists in just 5 games from midfield. For Billmeyer, the change was a natural one.

“The switch hasn't really been that difficult coming from defense to the midfield,” said Billmeyer. “I have played in the midfield all of my life and last year was my first year playing defense. The only thing that has been different is the fitness level because you run a lot more in the midfield than at defense. As a senior at Gibault High School, I played center midfield and recorded 19 goals.”

Goals have also come from freshman Clint Carder (DeSoto) and sophomore transfer Kory Dowell (Bayless) who have chipped in 5 scores each. Sophomore Steve McMahon (Lafayette) has been a steady contributor with a pair of goals and assists but has been a battler in the midfield trenches.

Also crucial in the midfield has been the play of freshman Tim Scheipeter, a Vianney High product who helped the Griffins advance to the state quarterfinals a year ago. A tenacious ball handler in the midfield, Scheipeter feels other more experienced teammates have been the key.

“I would have to attribute the success of the team to the age of the team,” said Scheipeter. “We have a lot of second year players and they are all great leaders in games and in our practices. We are better than I thought. I knew that this team was going to be good, I just didn't know that we would be 10-2-1 right now.”

Also strong in the critical midfield area have been sophomores Austin Killian (Lindbergh) and Brett Bozesky (CBC), and freshman Jake Macker (Kirkwood).

However, before the Magic can look ahead to Maple Woods, a tough East Central team will face them the day before (Wed., Oct. 7). Even though Meramec downed the Falcons 3-1 Sept. 29, East Central is still a force on the field and will be a factor in the regional tourney Oct. 30-Nov. 1 in Kansas City.

“I think after the games we have played this year and of the teams that we have seen last year, I think that every team is beatable,” said Billmeyer. “I think if we play solid and stay focused in regionals, we should win the regional championship.”

Meramec is strong at the goalie position with sophomore Chris Eason (Lindbergh), who sports 0.827 goals against average while freshman Mihailo Pantelic (Lindbergh) is fresh off a shutout over Blue River. Backing them up is sophomore transfer Marc Bowron (Aberdeen, Scotland), a quick defender.

The Magic have not won a Region XVI crown since 2000 and would like to wrap up the decade with the long awaited title. “I really believe our best soccer is ahead of us,” said Sabotic.

Meramec Magic Athletic News                                                                 October, 2009

Men’s Soccer Beats East Central 3-1, Improves To 9-2-1

With a convincing 3-1 win over Rival East Central College on Sept. 29, the STLCC-Meramec men’s soccer team bumped their season mark to 9-2-1, one of their fastest starts out of the gate in many years.

At 14:26 into the game, sophomore and team captain Almin Sabotic (Mehlville) broke a scoreless tie with a shot off a cross by sophomore midfielder Justin Billmeyer (Gibault.) Billmeyer had recently been shifted from the backfield as a defender to the midfield to strengthen the scoring attack.

Later in the first half, with 11:38 remaining, freshman forward Zane Smugala (Vianney) added what would turn out to be the game-winner when he took a pass from Clint Carder (DeSoto) and had the goalie one-on-one. The goalie came out in a last-ditch effort to block the shot and Smugala easily beat him, lifting the ball up over his head. Freshman midfielder Jake Macker (Kirkwood) also assisted on the play.  It was Smugala’s first goal of the season and first collegiate goal.

However, in the second half, the Falcons would make it interesting. Just 15 minutes into the half they scored a goal to make it 2-1 and keyed a bitter, hard fought half hour of soccer that eventually saw East Central coach Robert Peters get ejected by the referee for excessive arguing. Sophomore goalie Chris Eason (Lindbergh) played a solid 90 minutes in the nets. He is among the nation’s leaders as a goalie with a 0.827 goals against average.

The Magic fought off all of East Central’s attempted scoring drives before freshman Patrick Swaney (CBC) put the game on ice with a goal with 3:49 remaining, and a 3-1 final. Kory Dowell (Bayless) assisted on the score. Swaney, a late acquisition in August, was slated to originally play for NCAA Division I LaSalle University but had a sudden detour of plans when he had to have emergency tonsillectomy days before the start of classes. The surgery kept him from traveling to LaSalle to start the semester so Swaney decided to stay home his freshman year and play for the Magic.

Sabotic leads all scorers with 8 goals and 3 assists. Carder, a scoring juggernaut his high school senior year with 45 goals, has 5 goals and 3 assists. Dowell has 5 goals and 2 assists. Swaney has a pair of goals to go with 4 assists.

October will be a key month, including the Region XVI Tournament to be hosted by Blue River College in the Kansas City area. The Magic are seeking their first championship since 2000. A key test will come on Tuesday, Oct. 7 at 2:00 when they host Maple Woods of Kansas City in a rescheduled match due to rain on Sept. 26. Maple Woods is sporting an 8-0-1 record and defeated the Magic a year ago.

Women’s Soccer Looks For Strong October In Defense Of Crown

Coming off a 2-5 September mark, the STLCC-Meramec women’s soccer team will be hoping they saved their best for last as they head to the stretch run of October in defense of their Region XVI championship. The team dropped a 2-1 decision to Southwestern Illinois College on Sept. 30

In that game, sophomore forward and team captain Casey Caldwell (Lindbergh) scored the Magic’s lone goal. She leads the team with 4 goals on the young season. It was the second defeat in a row at the hands of Southwestern Illinois. In their previous match on Sept. 20, the Blue Storm downed Meramec 3-0. She was assisted by freshman midfielder Lauren Moran (Lindbergh).

The Magic did pick up a key win over STLCC-Forest Park on Sept. 19, 3-2. In that contest, it was the Caldwell-Moran duo again accounting for the scoring. Caldwell had a pair of goals while Moran picked up the other score. Freshman Olivia Aholt (Washington, MO) assisted on Moran’s goal, while Amy Guarino (Rockwood Summit), Chelsea Tetrault (Parkway North), and Kelsey Consiglio (Rosati Kain) assisted on Caldwell’s goals.

The Magic will start October play with a Saturday, Oct. 3 noon home match against Blue River, before a road rematch with Forest Park on Tuesday, Oct. 6 at 7 p.m.  They will begin defense of their crown on Friday, Oct. 30 when the Region XVI Tournament begins. That event will be hosted by a new entry in the region, St. Charles Community College. The title game will be the next day, on Saturday, Oct. 31.

Volleyball Magic Holding Their Own at 9-9, Magic Classic Oct. 2-3

The STLCC-Meramec volleyball squad has already shown a marked improvement over last season’s team, thanks to strong recruiting by second year coach Jenell Franken and a tenacious team work ethic. The team dropped a match to East Central on Sept. 30 to even their record at 9-9.

In a Region XVI Tournament preview on Sept. 26, despite dropping two of three matches, the Magic did whip Cottey College in consecutive games. The Magic have also had Lewis and Clark College’s number, defeating the Trailblazers twice this season.

The team hosted the Meramec Classic on Oct. 2-3 before hosting Lewis and Clark on Wednesday, Oct. 7 at 6:30.

The team is led by sophomore captains Alicia Eubanks (Windsor), a defensive specialist, and Meghan O’Sullivan (Windsor), an outside hitter. Middle hitter Nicole Hopp (Francis Howell North), a transfer from State Fair College, has also been a force on the floor.

STLCC-Meramec Soccer Squads Eye Revenge Matches

Rebounding from a pair of rain cancellations last week, the STLCC - Meramec men’s and women’s soccer teams will have revenge on their minds when they face their next opponents.

The men’s team, sporting an 8-2-1 record, squares off with visiting East Central on Tuesday (Sept. 29) at 4 p.m. It was the Falcons who ended Meramec’s season in the Region XVI quarterfinals last October, downing the Magic in overtime. The match will also be critical in seeding for this year’s regional tourney.

The Magic have had a balanced scoring attack led by sophomore forward Almin Sabotic (Mehlville) with 7 goals and 3 assists. Freshman Clint Carder (DeSoto) has netted 5 goals and 2 assists, while sophomore transfer Kory Dowell (Bayless) has 5 goals and 1 assist. The shifting of defender Justin Billmeyer (Gibault) to midfield has quickly paid off with 3 goals by the sophomore.

Sophomore goalie Chris Eason (Lindbergh) will be in the nets. Eason is among the top 25 goalies in the nation with his 0.80 goals against average.

The women’s soccer Magic will try to improve on their 2-4 record when they host Southwestern Illinois on Wednesday (Sept. 30) at 4 p.m. The Blue Storm downed Meramec 3-0 on Sept. 20. Sophomore Casey Caldwell (Lindbergh) leads the scoring with 3 goals on the season.

Volleyball Magic Look For Fast Track To Success

If energy translates into wins and success, the STLCC-Meramec volleyball team could have a banner year. The theme for this season is one of intensity and non-stop hustle.

“We look very good this year,” said sophomore captain Meghan O‘Sullivan (Windsor). “We’re a very scrappy team, we pick up everything, nothing touches the floor. I think we’re going to do very well this year.”

The Magic started the season on an encouraging note, sweeping all three matches on the opening night of the McKendree Tournament, including beating host McKendree JV in consecutive games.

“We lost to them last year by quite a bit and with them being a JV team it was really hard for us,” said sophomore captain Alicia Eubanks (Windsor). “But, coming out with fire underneath us and beating them by quite a bit was pretty satisfying.”

What made the wins that Friday night even more impressive was that second year head coach Jenell Franken had to do some last minute re-shuffling of the line-up due to a paperwork glitch with a player.

“We actually had a brand new line up 15 minutes before that game started on Friday,” said Franken. “I was very impressed with how we played. Our middle, a transfer from State Fair, didn’t get to play at all. We had brand new people in brand new spots so I’m glad that we finished as well as we did.”

New people have also equated into new energy. The Magic are looking to out hustle the opposition with their whole new look on the floor, including some size in the middle that didn’t previously exist.

“We want to have a strong work ethic,” said Franken. “One thing that we made sure we accomplish at every practice and at every game was that we work hard for every ball and we play each point like it’s our last. We finally have some size on our team – we didn’t have that last year. We have a 6’1” (Nicole Hopp - Francis Howell North) in the middle and we have some hard working defense. They’re just real determined people, they’re out here to play and are effective with it.”

Other players, both returning and new, have also impressed Franken with their hard-nosed play early in the season, such as returning sophomore Caroline Kargus (Mehlville), and transfer Alyssa Blinzler (Pierce City, MO) and freshman Kristi Miller (Sedalia, MO).

“Caroline Kargas joined us last year and did well in playing middle,“ said Franken. “I think I’m going to move her to right side now, but she did really well at the McKendree Tournament. She’s (Blinzler) going to play defense and sometimes she and Kristie Miller are going to switch off a little at the libero. Whoever is on that night will be playing; we’re going to play to win.”

Franken has several quality players to choose from, including freshmen Heather Gamblin (Bismarck, MO),         Nicole Cross (Lutheran South), Heather Niemeyer (Seckman), Angela Bieser (Parkway South), and             Chelsey Hainen (Tipton, MO).The positive atmosphere and attitudes have become contagious among the players, both on and off the floor.

“It’s one of those things that if one person does it, everybody kind of follows,” said Eubanks. “It's not just me; I do it in the hope that everyone follows but there are freshman up here that are taking their parts and showing leadership, talking as well.”

Coach Franken has seen that new energy firsthand during the early part of the season and is pleased with the outcome.

“We were able to speed up our offense. Compared to last year, it was a lot quicker,“ said Franken. “We have a better work ethic, less balls hit the ground and more people going for everything. We had a couple incredible plays where the ball was shanked and we had people running all over the court. It was pretty impressive.”

The Magic, 7-6 on the young season, travel to Godfrey, IL on Wednesday, Sept. 23 to face Lewis and Clark, a squad they defeated in the McKendree Tourney.
 

Sept. 15, 2009

Short-Handed Magic Top Southwestern Illinois In Double OT, 2-1

Sophomore forward Almin Sabotic (Mehlville) scored with 8:05 left in double overtime to push STLCC - Meramec past visiting Southwestern Illinois College 2-1 Tuesday. The Magic had played a man short for nearly 60 minutes following an ejection late in the first half.

Freshman midfielder Patrick Swaney (CBC) scored Meramec's first goal as well as the game-winning assist. The win improves Meramec’s record to 6-1-1 on the season and was their third match to go into overtime. In OT, the Magic are 2-0-1 this season.

Meramec had several other quality scoring chances earlier in overtime before scoring the game-winner.
Sabotic has five goals to go with a pair of assists on the year. For Swaney, the goal was his first collegiate score. Meramec travels to STLCC-Florissant Valley Thursday Sept. 17 for a 4 p.m. match.

Short-Handed Meramec Moves To 3-1 With Tourney Wins
By Sports Information Director Bob Frischmann

Freshman forward Clint Carder (DeSoto) headed in a cross from Steve McMahon (Lafayette) 30 minutes into the first half to break a scoreless tie and lead the STLCC-Meramec men’s soccer team to a 2-0 win over Oakton (Chicago) College in the final game of the Missouri Juco Invitational Tournament on Sunday, Sept. 6.

“It was another good ball by Steve McMahon,” said Carder. “It just curled right to my head at the top of the six and I flicked it over the top of the keeper.”

The tourney, played at Woodlands Park near St. Peters, featured 11 teams and four days of action that saw the Magic win two of three games to improve to 3-1 overall on the season. Carder’s goal, his second game-winner of the year, was especially important. Early in the second half, sophomore forward Austin Killian (Lindbergh) received a second yellow card on what appeared to be a clean slide tackle toward the ball, and was ejected leaving Meramec a man short for nearly the entire half.

“It was difficult, they always had an extra guy and they created a lot of chances but our defense held strong and we got the shutout,” said sophomore goalie Chris Eason (Lindbergh). “I’m tired after it now; I’m not usually tired after a game!”

The extra attacker provided for a frantic second half as the Magic skillfully played keep away from the Oakton onrush.

“It’s more of a mental thing, it seems like,” said coach Brian Smugala of the man advantage. “I don’t know why, but it seems like everyone instantly gets tired. If the other team’s patient and moves the ball around, they can run you ragged and get you tired.”

Finally, sophomore captain Almin Sabotic (Mehlville) put the game on ice in the final minute with an insurance goal. The goal capped off 40 minutes of strong defense by Meramec.

“I think our two center backs (Justin Billmeyer - Gibault; Marc Bowron - Aberdeen, Scotland) have been playing solid and we had good goal keeping so I don’t even really know if they got a shot on goal after we got the red card,” said Smugala.

Meramec opened tournament play on Thursday besting Allen County 4-1 behind a pair of goals by forward Kory Dowell (Bayless). Carder and Killian also added goals in the win. However, on Friday the Magic ran into a tough Illinois Central team and dropped a 2-0 decision.

Carder leads the team with three goals and one assist. Sabotic has two goals and an assist, while Dowell has two goals.

Meramec was in the tourney’s Blue Division with five other teams. However, no standings or places were released by the tourney director at the end of the event.
 

Meramec Magic Athletic News                                                               September, 2009

Meramec Emerges With Bizarre 2-1 Win In Season Opener

Battling all odds, the STLCC-Meramec men’s soccer team walked away from Lincoln, IL with a 2-1 overtime victory in their season opener against Lincoln College Friday, Aug. 28. The Magic had to overcome a shallow bench with just three subs due to injuries, an officiating crew that did not know two major, common rules, and rapidly falling daylight at the end of the game.

“It had a little bit of everything,” said fifth year head coach Brian Smugala, “players on the other team cursing at me, cursing our players, spitting on our players, referees didn’t handle it real well, and didn’t know the rules. So, we overcame a lot and I’m real excited for the boys.”

The 5:30 start was played under ominously dark skies on an unseasonably cool evening. Meramec started the night with scoring being its number one question - the Magic had not scored a goal through three pre-season exhibition scrimmages. But, that hex was shattered midway through the second half when sophomore captain Almin Sabotic (Mehlville) converted a penalty kick to give Meramec a 1-0 advantage. The PK was triggered by sophomore forward   Steve McMahon (Lafayette) being taken down hard in the box with the ball.

“I got a ball hit through from the midfield,” said McMahon. “One of their defenders came; he was a real quick guy. He got me in the box. He got me pretty good.”

However, the match would be far from over. With eight minutes remaining, Lincoln’s Stiven Salinas scored on a breakaway and shocked the solid Meramec defense, knotting the score at one each. The already highly physical game then took a bizarre turn two minutes later in Meramec’s favor. After Magic goalie Chris Eason (Lindbergh) had made a routine save, Salinas confronted him.

“I was simply trying to clear out the ball and the guy (Salinas) was cutting back and forth, not letting me kick it,” said Eason. “Then he ran at me and spit on my shirt. He just looked at me and spit on me.”

Salinas received a red card and was ejected from the game. With six minutes left and daylight falling, Meramec feverishly tried to convert with the one man advantage and regain the lead. However, regulation ended. The Magic started to prep for the first overtime period as Lincoln players started to promptly exit the field.

“The other team conveniently didn’t know you play overtime in a junior college match,” said Smugala. “The refs acted like they didn’t know the rule so it was pretty frustrating. With Lincoln being short a man because of their red card obviously that’s why they didn’t want to play in overtime.”

The overtime rule, a universal one in college soccer, was the second miscue by the officiating crew. Throughout the game, when a yellow card was issued to either team‘s player, none of the three officials mandated the player to leave the game, another common rule of college soccer.

Lincoln reluctantly returned to the field for an overtime period when warned they would forfeit the match if they refused to continue. The delay by the officials in immediately beginning an overtime period contributed to rapidly deteriorating daylight. In overtime, Meramec came out fast and vigorously attacked Lincoln’s defense, narrowly missing on two close shots. Finally, midway through the first extra period, the offense clicked in the person of freshman forward Clint Carder (DeSoto).

“McMahon won the ball at the corner which gave us the corner kick,” said Carder, “then a great cross by Jake Macker (Kirkwood). It came into Joe Reidel (St. Mary‘s), he hit it across to center and I just put it in. The goalie was at near post and I just had to tap it in.”

The goal put an ecstatic cap on a frustrating evening, catapulting the Magic to a 2-1 win to start the season. Salinas’ unsportsmanlike actions played right into Meramec’s hands.

“It was probably the most physical game I’ve ever been a part of,” said Sabotic. “The refs should have called a couple of red cards but they didn’t. They got us fired up!”

The Magic hope to stay fired up throughout the season facing a tough schedule of some of the nation’s toughest teams. However, the win over Lincoln erased any scoring doubts that the pre season may have created.

“It sets the tone for the season, now that we have a couple goals under our belt we’ll be good to go for the season,” said sophomore defender Justin Billmeyer (Columbia, IL).

Sour Economy Gives Sweet Boost To Women’s Soccer Squad

The bad economy is finally paying dividends, at least for the STLCC-Meramec women’s soccer squad. The team, which has struggled for several years with low numbers, has a robust 22 players this season, the most since 1995.

“I worked pretty hard with recruiting but I think the economy’s part of it too,” said twenty seventh year head coach        Jeff Karl.  “I have three or four kids who are transferring from four year schools.  They’re here going to school on the A Plus program for free. I think the parents and the students see the advantage of that money-wise.”

The added bodies will give Karl, the program’s only coach since its inception in 1983, a luxury he has not had in a few years in strategic substitutions and allow for more leg power on the field.

“I’m hoping that we will present a lot of energy and consistent energy,” said Karl.  “I’m telling the girls that when we have 11 people out there I want those legs to be fresh and when they’re tired, we’re bringing in fresh legs.”

Much of that energy will come from the likes of forward Casey Caldwell (Lindbergh) who came on strong late in the season with three goals and five assists.

“Casey last year in playoffs really started to shine,” said Karl. “She scored some goals; her offense production was good going right into playoffs. She’s going to be one of our principal strikers. We’re looking for some big things.”

Caldwell, likewise, has high expectations for herself. “With the six returners we have I think I play a big role,” said Caldwell. “I am there to show everyone the ropes of college soccer. I lead by example and try and put 100% out every day, game or practice.”

Another key returning player is midfielder Rachel Aubuchon (Parkway North). Aubuchon was a reserve stopper last year and will likely be a starter for the ‘09 team. Karl says she has special skills that make her an asset.

“She’s really intelligent about the game, she sees things and how they develop quicker than other players,” said Karl. “You’re not going to find too many people who work harder. That can really be contagious when you have a player who shows leadership qualities like she has.”

However, Aubuchon feels her success comes more from her vocal cords than her feet. “Personally my leadership comes from my mouth, everyone can hear me probably 95% of the time talking and trying to let people know what they can do with the ball,” said Aubuchon.

Despite just six returning players, Aubuchon feels the large influx of freshmen will not be detrimental this year. “It is nice to have a team as hardworking as we are this year,” said Aubuchon. “Some of our strengths are having a strong defensive line and also having several players with speed and strikers with solid hard shots.”

Another experienced sophomore is defender Kelsey Consiglio (Rosati Kain). “This year she’s really off to a good start,” said Karl of Consiglio. “She’s doing a lot of good things and being her sophomore year she’ll really present some good leadership qualities, she’ll be In our backfield, probably starting for us at the right wingback.”

One interesting position will be the goalie spot, where Amber Standfill (Parkway South) and Katie Jolliff (Northwest) will initially platoon. Both might have a lot of trouble touching the top cross bar - Joliff is 5’4” while Standfill is a diminutive 5’1”. However, Karl is quick to point out that the Magic once took third in the nation with a 5’0” goalie.

However, the squad will stand tall in their defense of the Region XVI championship they captured last fall, their first in five years. It’s a special point of pride for the sophomores. “We are extremely excited to be defending the Region XVI championship, we have every intention of being the champions again this year,” said Aubuchon. “I think the sophomores would accept nothing less than another championship this year.”

Coach Karl agrees, and he knows what it’s like to be on top of the soccer world, having won national titles in 1991 and 1992. “It’s nice to know that for right now we’re the top squad in Missouri,” said Karl. “There’ll be people come hunting for us, that’s for sure.”

Volleyball Magic Open With 4-2 Mark At McKendree Tourney

Coming off a successful opening night of the season at the McKendree Tournament, the STLCC-Meramec volleyball team swept all three matches, defeating Rend Lake, host McKendree JV, and Lewis and Clark.

The next day, Meramec fell to Southwestern Illinois College before beating Oakton. In their final match of the tourney, the Magic were defeated by Mineral Area in consecutive games.

The team has been working hard under second year coach Jenell Franken and is starting to show the efforts paying off. They’ll continue the season Wednesday, Sept. 2 with their first home match facing East Central at 6:30. Later in the week, they’ll travel to the Lincoln Land Tournament in Springfield, IL.

One key to the team will be Alyssa Blinzler (Pierce City, MO). Blinzler, a defensive specialist, transferred in from State Fair College where she won Scholar-Athlete honors. As a high school senior she was an All-Conference first team selection as well as Academic All-State.

Another defensive specialist will also be looked to for strong play. Heather Gamblin (Bismark, MO) swept all post season honors last fall as prep senior with first team berths on the All-Conference, All-Region, and All-District teams.

August 31, 2009                                                                                                                                                   

Men’s Soccer Wins Season Opener In OT, 2-1 Over Lincoln                     

Freshman Clint Carder (DeSoto) scored his first collegiate career goal midway through the first overtime to carry the STLCC-Meramec men’s soccer team to a 2-1 win over Lincoln College in Lincoln, IL on Friday, Aug. 28 in their season opener. Carder was assisted on the game-winner by midfielder Joe Reidel (St. Mary’s).

The Magic broke the scoreless tie with 21 minutes left in regulation on a penalty kick by Almin Sabotic (Mehlville). The kick was awarded after forward Steve McMahon (Lafayette) was taken down hard in the box with the ball. However, with eight minutes remaining, Lincoln tied the score.

Meramec will begin play in the Missouri Juco Invitational Tournament on Thursday, Sept. 3 taking on Allen County at 3 p.m. in Cottleville. The team will play three games in four days, facing some of the best teams in the country. The event wraps up on Sunday, Sept. 6. Meramec is looking for its fifteenth consecutive winning season.
 

STLCC - Meramec Magic Athletic News                                                    August 2009

Soccer, Volleyball Usher In 2009-10 Campaign

The countdown has begun to the 2009-10 sports seasons for STLCC-Meramec and the hunt for the ultimate sports dream -- a national championship. Fall sports begin later this month with men’s and women’s soccer and volleyball taking center stage. Meramec has a tradition of consistently fielding highly competitive teams, and many of those athletes move on to attend four-year universities, some at the NCAA Division I level.

The women’s soccer team defends its Region XVI championship with head coach Jeff Karl returning for his 27th season as the founding coach of the program. Karl's 319 career victories top the all-time national junior college women’s soccer leader list. Under Karl, the team won back-to-back national championships in 1991 and 1992. He is a member of both the Magic Hall of Fame and the St. Louis Soccer Hall of Fame.

The squad does not officially open its season until Saturday, Sept. 5, facing Parkland College on the road at 3 p.m. in Champaign, Ill.

Returning players include forward Casey Caldwell (Lindbergh), who stood out with three goals and five assists and shows promise of developing into a scoring leader; defender Rachel Aubuchon (Affton), who blanketed opponents’ scorers and held them at bay; defender, Kelsey Consiglio (Rosati Kain), who managed to chip in a goal and an assist from the backfield; and sweeper Chelsea Tetrault (Parkway North), who also augments a fine defense.

Karl describes Tetrault as a “smart, heady player who knows the game.” Tetrault can play anywhere in the backfield and has excellent speed. In 2008 the team shut out six opponents and allowed only 1.78 goals per game. Meanwhile, the offense averaged 2.63 goals per contest.

New signees include a trio from a traditionally soccer rich school – Kennedy High. Defender Samantha Heberer, midfielder Kristen Marchetto and forward Whitley Menner all arrive from the Celts. Heberer tallied three goals and three assists from the defense, while Menner booted in three goals.

Also joining the Magic in ’09 are midfielder and set-up specialist Shelby Roberts from DeSoto High – she had three goals and seven assists for the Dragons. Kristin Wilson enters via DuBourg High as a midfielder/forward.

Transfers include midfielder Lauren Moran (Lindbergh), who played a year at the University of Missouri-Columbia, and forward Tricia Jokerst (Union, Mo.), who played at Fontbonne University.

If the Magic can find their scoring punch, the traditionally strong defense will keep Meramec in the game as the Magic search for their first national tournament appearance since 2002.

Full Tilt of August Matches Awaits Men’s Soccer Squad

Getting off to a fast start during the August heat, the men’s soccer team will participate in two exhibition matches before regular -season action begins.

Eighth-year coach Brian Smugala (three as assistant, five as head coach) hopes to finally capture the Region XVI title and propel Meramec to its first national tournament appearance since 2000.

Sophomore Almin Sabotic (Mehlville), who led the Magic in scoring last year, will pair with DeSoto High product     Clint Carder to lead the scoring. Sabotic has a chance at the Meramec scoring record of 29 goals if he has a stellar season -- he scored 13 goals in 2008. Carder was the St. Louis area prep scoring leader in ‘08 at DeSoto with 35 goals and 20 assists. Also a proven scorer, Steve McMahon (Lafayette) returns after a strong freshman campaign.

Three other key returning players include midfielder Brett Bozesky (CBC), the versatile Austin Killian (Lindbergh) and midfielder Justin Billmeyer (Gibault).

Talented goalie Chris Eason (Lindbergh) returns for a second season and will be joined by another former Flyer goalie -- Mihailo Pantelic.

A key test will be the Friday, Aug. 14, scrimmage against the NCAA Division II University of Missouri-St. Louis. Last year, optimism abounded when the Magic battled the Tritons to a 0-0 tie in the August exhibition. The contest starts at 7 p.m. at UM-St. Louis.

The regular season begins Saturday, Aug. 29, in Lincoln, Ill. against Lincoln College, a perennially tough and talented opponent. The Magic take part in the Missouri Juco Invitational Tournament Sept. 3-6 in Cottleville, Mo., taking on three quality opponents -- Oakton-Chicago, Allen County, Illinois Central -- each usually in the national rankings.

Volleyball Team Enters Second Season Under Franken

Head coach Jenell Franken will continue rebuilding the volleyball program as she enters her second season and first full season of recruiting new players. The team begins exhibition play Saturday, Aug. 22, hosting a multi-team jamboree beginning at 11 a.m.

The Magic open the season Aug. 28-29 on the road in Lebanon, Ill., for the McKendree Tournament. Times and opponents will be announced later.

Busch Stadium Baseball Tradition Slated For Sept. 16

In what has become an annual tradition, the Meramec baseball team will play STLCC-Forest Park Sept. 16 at Busch Stadium, immediately following the St. Louis Cardinals game against the Florida Marlins.

The Magic and Highlanders will play a nine-inning scrimmage game. The tradition began in September 2005 when Meramec and Forest Park played at Busch Stadium and became a part of history as the final amateur game at the old stadium. Tickets to the Cardinals game are available through coach Tony Dattoli. He can be reached at 314-984-7785. Fans who attend the Cardinal game may stay for the Meramec-Forest Park game.

Healthy Freese Heats Up August At AAA Memphis

A healthy David Freese is back in the swing of things, returning as the starting third baseman for the Memphis Redbirds, St. Louis' AAA affiliate. Since returning from ankle surgery in May, Freese has homered twice and is hitting the ball extremely well.

Freese is currently on the Cardinals' 40-man roster and is tentatively slated to join the Redbirds Sept. 1 when teams officially may expanded their rosters. Freese opened the season with the Cardinals.

The Meramec alum starred for the Magic in 2003 and 2004 before being drafted by the San Diego Padres in 2006 in the ninth round. In January 2008, Freese was traded to the Cardinals for center-field fan favorite Jim Edmonds. Freese was promoted to the AAA Memphis and enjoyed an outstanding 2008 season, prompting the call-up this spring to replace the injured Troy Glaus at third base.