As the NIU men’s soccer team nears its season opener, there is one step coach Steve Simmons wants his team to make.

That is the step that takes them from a good team to a great team.

The Huskies enjoyed one of the most successful seasons in school history last year, making it to the second round of the NCAA tournament before being ousted by Indiana. Simmons knows the key steps that will be needed to make the jump to greatness.

If you ask Simmons, the first key is consistency.

Being consistent should not be too tough, given the experience the Huskies have coming back from last year’s team. 2006 MAC Newcomer of the Year Marcus McCarty, who led the conference in both goals and points, is back to anchor the offense.

Also returning are seniors Chris Rufa, an All-MAC First Team selection last season, and Steve Algozino, an All-MAC second team selection.

The Huskies also have junior goalkeeper Joe Zimka returning. Zimka recorded 11 of the Huskies school-record 14 shutouts last season, led the NCAA with a .955 saves percentage, and set an NCAA Division I record with a .21 goals against per game.

“They have the experience,” Simmons said. “It’s pretty normal for a group to follow those personalities. Upper-class leadership is a key ingredient. We’re going to be as successful as our upper-class leadership will take us.”

Simmons said another key to being a great team has to do with honesty. “Honesty allows us to respect our opponents,” Simmons said. “We have to understand everyone’s good [at the college level]. We can’t take any team lightly.”

In spite of last year’s success, there is one question mark; the loss of graduated midfielders Kevin Woerner and Justin McGrane.

The losses, though, garner competition for the open spots, something Simmons is looking forward to.

“The competitive environment encourages players to lift their game,” Simmons said. “That atmosphere is another essential part of going from good to great.”

The Huskies open the season this Friday with a match against Bucknell in Evanston. The Huskies home opener is Sept. 14 against Missouri- Kansas City.

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