Denison University’s men’s soccer program is one of the most successful in Division III history, with 10 NCAA Division III National Championships, 24 NCAA Tournament appearances, and 16 North Coast Athletic Conference (NCAC) Championships. The Big Red have also produced a number of All-Americans, Academic All-Americans, and professional soccer players.
Early History
Denison University’s men’s soccer program was founded in 1957. The team played its first game on September 17, 1957, against Ohio Wesleyan University. Denison won the game 3-1. The Big Red finished their first season with a record of 4-3-1.
In 1962, Denison won its first NCAC Championship. The Big Red went on to make their first NCAA Tournament appearance in 1963. Denison lost in the first round to Calvin College 2-1.
The Golden Age
The 1970s and 1980s were the golden age of Denison men’s soccer. During this time, the Big Red won six NCAA Division III National Championships (1977, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1982, and 1984). Denison also made 10 NCAA Tournament appearances during this time.
The Big Red were led by a number of outstanding players during this time, including All-Americans Dave Fry, John Kerr, and Jeff Berding. Fry was a two-time NCAA Division III Player of the Year, while Kerr was a three-time All-American. Berding went on to have a successful career in Major League Soccer (MLS).
The 1990s and 2000s
The 1990s and 2000s were a period of transition for Denison men’s soccer. The Big Red did not win any NCAA Division III National Championships during this time, but they did make 10 NCAA Tournament appearances.
Denison was led by a number of outstanding players during this time, including All-Americans Matt Bahnsen and Mike Noonan. Bahnsen was a two-time All-American, while Noonan was a three-time All-American.
The 2010s
The 2010s have been a resurgence for Denison men’s soccer. The Big Red have won two NCAA Division III National Championships (2013 and 2019) and made 10 NCAA Tournament appearances during this time.
Denison has been led by a number of outstanding players during this time, including All-Americans Max Holden and Alex Brandt. Holden was a two-time All-American, while Brandt was a three-time All-American.
Current Status
Denison University’s men’s soccer program is currently one of the top teams in Division III. The Big Red are ranked No. 1 in the United Soccer Coaches Division III Preseason Poll. Denison is led by a number of talented players, including All-Americans Max Holden and Alex Brandt.
The Big Red are poised to make another run at the NCAA Division III National Championship in 2023.
Key Players
- Max Holden (Forward)
- Alex Brandt (Midfielder)
- Luke Johnson (Defender)
- Josh Cohen (Goalkeeper)
Key Stats
- 10 NCAA Division III National Championships
- 24 NCAA Tournament appearances
- 16 NCAC Championships
- 43 All-Americans
Conclusion
Denison University’s men’s soccer program is one of the most successful in Division III history. The Big Red have a long tradition of excellence, and they are poised to continue their success in the future.
