Husker Soccer Opens Fall Practice

The Nebraska soccer team began preparations for the 2009 season on Thursday, as it opened its fall pre-season schedule with a pair of practices in Lincoln. The Huskers will undergo drills for the next week and a half, utilizing Fleming Fields, the Hawks Championship Center and the Nebraska Soccer Field while interspersing three scrimmages. NU faces its first competition Aug. 18 in an exhibition game at Colorado College.

Following a 10-9-1 campaign a year ago, Nebraska is looking to return to the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2005. The Huskers return seven starters and could build off last season's momentum, as NU went 6-4 in Big 12 play, including a 4-1 mark at home during that stretch. The Huskers also posted a strong spring season, finishing with a 7-1-3 record.

Nebraska begins the 2009 slate with three straight road games, starting with Northern Colorado on Saturday, Aug. 22 in Greeley, Colo. Following two contests in the Villanova Classic (Aug. 28 and Aug. 30), the Huskers return to Lincoln for the home opener Sept. 4 vs. Lamar at the Nebraska Soccer Field.

Fans will get their first chance to see the 2009 Huskers on Wednesday, Aug. 26 at the annual Meet-N-Beat at the Nebraska Soccer Field at 6:30 p.m.