Northwest Missouri State University head soccer coach Tracy Hoza has announced the Bearcats’ 2013 schedule. This year’s slate includes eight home games at Bearcat Pitch and features games against three 2012 NCAA tournament qualifiers.

“Our schedule this year is similar to last year,” said Hoza. “We are going to play some really good in-region teams that makes for a tough schedule and some great competition.

Hoza’s 2013 squad will feature 18 returning letterwinners and 10 starters.

“For us, the key to the season is to finish strong,” Hoza explained. “We have to keep the momentum throughout the season. Our biggest expectation is for our team to perform and if they do that, we will be better on the field. He have good players who have plenty of experience. We just need to stay disciplined especially near the end of the year when we have to play on the road.”

The season kicks off on Thursday, Sept. 5, as the Bearcats welcome Wayne State in the home opener. Northern State will visit on Sunday, Sept. 8, at 3 p.m.After a weekend trip in Minnesota to play at St. Cloud State (Sept. 13) andWinona State (Sept. 15), the Bearcats return home to host Lindenwood in theMIAA opener.

A unique four-day stretch pits Northwest against rival Missouri Western twice, beginning in St. Joseph on Sept. 24 followed by a rematch on Sept. 27 at Bearcat Pitch. October begins with trips to Graceland (Oct. 1), Northeastern State (Oct. 4) and NCAA qualifier Central Oklahoma (Oct. 6). After hosting Emporia State (Oct. 11), the team heads to Washburn (Oct. 13) then returns home for home matches against Nebraska-Kearney (Oct. 18) and NCAA qualifier FortHays State (Oct. 20).

After a trip to Southwest Baptist (Oct. 24), the Bearcats will play back-to-back games against NCAA qualifier Central Missouri, starting in Warrensburg on Oct. 26 and returning to Maryville on Nov. 1. The regular season concludes at Missouri Southern on Nov. 3.

— Northwest Sports Information —