Raising the Bar: Westcliff Men’s Soccer Triumphs in Historic 2023 Season

The Westcliff University men’s soccer team has etched its name in the annals of Westcliff athletics and California Pacific Conference history with a highly-successful 2023 season campaign. Finishing with an impressive 18-2 record, the Warriors demonstrated dominance throughout the regular season by shutting out opponents and breaking scoring records with ease. Outfitted in new soccer kits, following Westcliff’s signing of a five-year exclusive partnership with Nike, the team was looking and playing better than ever before.

Their journey culminated in being crowned the 2023 Cal Pac Regular Season Champions, followed by clinching the 2023 Cal Pac Championship. The team’s success extended to their NAIA Championship debut, where they defeated No. 11 Rio Grande in the second round, earning them a coveted spot at the finals site in Wichita, Kansas.

The Warriors faced a formidable challenge in the round of 16 against reigning champions Bethel (IN), and despite a valiant effort, their historic season concluded with a 2-0 loss. Notably, forwards John Adekunle and Wissem Obeid had opportunities to score, showcasing the team’s offensive prowess with multiple near successes on goal.

This remarkable season marked the beginning of what many are seeing as a team of future champions. Looking back, their journey began during the offseason with the appointment of Randy Dodge as the head coach for the 2023 season. Dodge, a renowned soccer coaching legend in Southern California, aimed to lead the Warriors to unprecedented success, a goal which he clearly held up.

Under Dodge’s guidance, the team made a strong statement in their first three games, including a significant 2-1 victory against NCAA Division 1 University of California, San Diego (UCSD). The win at UCSD signaled that something special was brewing, setting the tone for a season filled with achievements.

Despite a lone setback against UC Merced, the Warriors rebounded impressively, winning the next 11 games in a row, including the Cal Pac Championship game against UC Merced. The team’s offensive prowess was evident as they led the nation in shots, goals, goals per game, and assists, with players Obeid and Adekunle topping the Cal Pac Conference leaderboards.

As the 2023 season concludes, the Warriors have not only secured a conference title but have also set the stage for future success. The ‘Warrior Dynasty’ is poised to become a staple in Cal Pac postseason and national championship competitions.

Head Coach Dodge expressed his satisfaction with the team’s accomplishments, emphasizing the mental resolve displayed by the players. The journey is far from over and the Warriors aim to continue their success next season. This year marks not just a culmination but the inception of a legacy for Westcliff University men’s soccer.