March 20, 2013

WEST POINT, N.Y. - The Army men's soccer team will officially begin its preparations for the 2013 schedule this spring with a rigorous schedule of matches. Russell Payne, who is set to embark upon his fourth season with the Black Knights, released his program's spring slate on Wednesday.

The challenging schedule will help the Black Knights continue their development. Army's 2012 roster featured a myriad of freshmen and sophomores, and the young group will benefit from engaging in a series of competitive matches.

"Our team has an exciting and challenging spring slate ahead, with strong regional opponents," said Payne. "Central Connecticut was the 2011 Northeast Conference champion and Rutgers won the 2011 Big East title. Iona, Albany, Rider and Delaware will also provide stern tests. Our goal this spring is for the players to use these valuable competitive minutes to strengthen their individual technical foundation and understanding of our team's playing and winning philosophy."

Army begins its spring schedule on Sunday, March 24, when the Black Knights host Central Connecticut State at West Point's Shea Stadium. The match is slated to be played at 1 p.m.

Army then welcomes Albany to West Point on Saturday, March 30. The contest, which will begin at 2 p.m., is scheduled to be played at the United States Military Academy Prep School.

The Black Knights travel to face Delaware on Sunday, April 7, before hosting Rutgers and Iona on Saturday, April 13.

The competition on April 13 will feature three 60-minute games on Clinton Field. Army will face Rutgers at 11 a.m., Iona will battle Rutgers at 12:15 p.m., and Army will take on Iona at 1:30 p.m.

Army closes out its spring slate against Rider on Friday, April 19, in conjunction with the men's soccer alumni weekend. The team's annual alumni contest is slated for Saturday, April 20. Every game in April will be played at Clinton Field, the home of Army soccer.

2013 Army Men's Soccer Spring Schedule