Northeast Wisconsin’s premier Division I team is currently on track for another successful year.
The Green Bay Phoenix Men’s soccer team has only a few weeks left of regular season games and is aiming for requalification to the NCAA Tournament. The team had a highly successful season in 2023, finishing with an overall record of 10-4-5 and a conference result of 5-2-2. They finished the regular season in second place, behind Oakland, but outscored Oakland in the final playoff match, most notably qualifying for the NCAA Tournament. These final few weeks of the regular season are crucial, as they will determine whether the team re-qualifies for the NCAA tournament. It is important for the Phoenix to maintain their current winning streak to secure a spot in the playoffs. Once in the playoffs, the team will rely on determination and effort to pursue another NCAA Tournament berth.
As the 2024 season nears its conclusion, despite a slow start, the team has won seven of its last ten games, keeping their tournament hopes alive. The team has faced significant challenges this year, including the departure of the 2023 head coach, Jeremy Bonomo, who left Green Bay to coach at Northeastern at the end of last season; he also took some of the Phoenix’s key players with him. A new coaching staff, with John O’Reilly assuming the head coach role, and new additions to the roster are all changes the team has managed effectively.
Head Coach John O’Reilly credits the team’s success so far this season to the team’s collective mindset and determination. “The buy-in from the players has been incredible”, O’Reilly said, making note that the team’s motivation to build upon last year’s NCAA tournament appearance has been a key driver for them to push even further this season. As the season draws to a close, O’Reilly remains focused on keeping the team grounded, taking each game as “one game at a time” so the team can maintain momentum. He believes that the team’s current performance, tied for first place in the league, reflects their commitment to this strategy. O’Reilly also highlighted the team’s strong culture and camaraderie, stating that playing for one another as a cohesive unit has been essential to their success. “They are all working towards the common goal of getting back to the NCAA Tournament and winning games once they’re there.”
Key player So Nishikawa is confident in the team’s chances of requalifying for the NCAA Tournament. He emphasized the importance of focusing on each game without being overwhelmed by the broader objectives. “I don’t think about it too much. I believe in myself and my teammates, and I trust that things will play out as we hope,” Nishikawa said. Reflecting on the season, Nishikawa pointed to standout moments, including a game-winning goal by a teammate against Southern Indiana, which sparked a six-game winning streak for the Phoenix. Looking ahead, Nishikawa is clear on the team’s objectives: to continue their winning ways and aim for a strong run in the NCAA Tournament. With the team currently tied for first place in the Horizon League, morale is high, and Nishikawa is eager to see how the team performs in the final few games.
Photo provided by So Nishikawa.
The last match of the regular season, a home game against Milwaukee, is anticipated to be a highlight, as both teams compete for the Chancellor’s Cup. To clinch their place in the NCAA Tournament this year, the team will need to remain sharp defensively, strong offensively, and continue capitalizing on set-piece opportunities—key factors in their success thus far. While different scenarios could unfold depending on the results of their remaining games, the Phoenix understand that winning their remaining matches will put them in the best position for NCAA Tournament requalification.
With the final games of the season approaching, the team is prepared for the challenges ahead. Excitement surrounding the Green Bay Phoenix men’s soccer team is growing, as fans from across the community continue to rally behind the squad. For the team, the goal is not only to finish the season strong, but to demonstrate their capability to compete against the nation’s top Division I programs on a national stage, earning another chance in the NCAA Tournament.
Photo provided by Green Bay Phoenix.
