JAMESTOWN – With another season of Jamestown Community College men's soccer upon, there is a lot of optimism in terms of having more veteran presence on the field.

"We have about 12 guys that are returning this season and that has made a huge difference this preseason," said head coach Pat Anderson. "We have players that have the experience, that understand the system, and that have put in the work for a year. These guys can lead us into the games and elevate the others to get on that level."

The Jayhawks will look to sophomore midfielder Josh Carr (Wigan, England/Standish Community HS) and sophomore forward Tholo Malebo (Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa/Crawford International-Lonehill) to lead the flock into the season as they will be this year's captains.

"Josh and Tholo have earned the respect of their peers on and off the field," Anderson said. "These guys give everything they have and they show the ability to elevate the players around them as well. They took on the responsibilities of being the captains and they have earned that right."

With the veterans returning, JCC reloaded as well and the expectations are high from the freshman class this season. Anderson highlighted the additions of forward Alex Watt (Belfast, Northern Ireland/Campbell College), wings Callum Featherstone (Hull, England/Barnsley College) and James Cassidy (Glasgow, Scotland/Calderglen HS), midfielder Mohamed Belmahdi (Compiegne, France/Lycee Pieer d'Ally) and defenseman Blessings Murumbo (Leeds, England).

"We have a great group of freshman this season," said Anderson. "All these guys each bring something to the team and have made a difference on the field to this point."

JCC has a balanced season with an even amount of home and away games spread throughout the season. With the balance, Anderson says that being able to play in front of a home crowd early in the season can help boost morale.

"It's important for these guys to play in front of a home crowd early in the season," Anderson said. "It gives our guys the opportunity to have their friends and families see them in person. In terms of the road portion of the schedule, there is a limit to expect our players to be on the road and play. They schedule in terms of travel shouldn't cause any sort of issues."

The Jayhawks start the regular season on the road at Bryant & Stratton-Rochester this Saturday, August 27th, before they begin region play at home on August 31st against Finger Lakes Community College.

JCC will also be tested early in the season as they travel to No. 4 Genesee CC on September 7th and No. 6 Mohawk Valley CC on September 18th.

"Region 3 always has three or four teams that are ranked in the top 10 in the nation," said Anderson. "We know that we will be facing as tough of any competition throughout the season. It forces us to step up and play. If we can build and play to get to their level, we can compete for a region title and get into the national tournament."

The Jayhawks will play five home contest in the September and two in October.

For the full schedule, visit jccjayhawks.com.