Russell Cicerone Earns TopDrawerSoccer.com Preseason Best XI Squad Recognition
8/23/2016 12:00:00 AM | Men's Soccer
TopDrawerSoccer.com BEST XI SQUADS
BUFFALO, NY – University at Buffalo men's soccer senior captain Russell Cicerone was named to the TopDrawerSoccer.com Preseason Best XI Squad, as announced by the website on Tuesday. This honor recognizes the best college soccer players in the country.
"It's pleasing to see that the reigning MAC Player of the Year is getting the recognition he deserves from these media outlets," said fourth-year head coach Stu Riddle. "He's poised for a big fall season and a big professional career and I know he's chomping at the bit to get the regular season going this weekend."
Cicerone is coming off one of the best seasons in program history in 2015 as he earned Mid-American Conference Player of the Year honors, becoming just the second UB player in program history to do so. The dangerous forward finished off his impressive junior campaign leading the team and conference in goals (12) and points (32) while also racking up a career-best eight assists, ranking third in the MAC.
The Bloomfield Hills, MI native also garnered first team All-MAC honors for the third consecutive season, becoming the first UB player in program history to do so. Cicerone has plastered his name all over the UB record books as he ranks third in program history in goals (28) and points (69) while ranking ninth in assists (13).
The Bulls completed their exhibition slate with a 2-0-1 overall record while Cicerone had himself quite the preseason, racking up a team-best six goals and two assists through the three matches.
UB will open up their regular season at UB Stadium on Friday, Aug. 26 as they welcome Daemen College for a 7:00 pm match. Admission to Friday night's season opener is free for all fans. The Bulls will then hit the road for a Big 4 battle with Canisius on Sunday, Aug. 28 at 7:00 pm.
