Four SOCA graduates are presently enjoying a deep run into the NCAA men’s soccer championships with their Virginia Tech teammates. In their most recent “Sweet Sixteen” match against 7th ranked Indiana University, the Hokies advanced 2-1 over the favored Hoosiers, off goals from SOCA alumni Forrest White and Brandon Moyers. Moyers is a freshman and is joined by classmates and SOCA teammates, James Kasak and Burke Bender. Moyers has been a regular starter playing in all 21 matches this season. Kasak has played in every game and has been an important contributor. Bender was seeing regular action prior to receiving a season-ending knee injury earlier in the year.

Of the five ACC teams in the NCAA Division I men’s quarterfinals, the big surprise is Virginia Tech. The unseeded Hokies, who had knocked off No. 10 Charlotte, 3-2, in the second round, beat Indiana in the third round on Forrest White’s golazo in overtime. White, a junior, grew up playing in SOCA and is enjoying his best year at Tech. Watch the video of his game winning golden goal, here:  https://vimeo.com/193264900

The Hoosiers had the majority of play, with a 24-8 shots margin and 9-0 advantage in corner kicks, but the Hokies were able to score first from Brendan Moyers’ goal at the 19 minute mark.  Indiana finally found the equalizer in the 77th minute, ultimately sending the game into overtime.

In overtime, IU again had the bulk of possession, but the Hokies were able to find the winner when White unleashed a left footed beauty from the top of the penalty box. The shot curled and thumped off the left post and into the goal, leaving the Hoosiers in despair, and sending the Hokies into ecstasy.

“Today’s result was a great team win,” said Virginia Tech coach Mike Brizendine.

The SOCA gang at Tech will next face second ranked Wake Forest on Saturday in the “Elite Eight” round. Tech last advanced to the College Cup final four in 2007, where they were eliminated by Wake Forest. The SOCA Hokies will be hoping to help their mates get past their ACC rivals and land in the Cup with a chance at the top prize this time.