Butler Men's Soccer Adds Four Recruits For 2002

March 3, 2002

Butler men's soccer coach Joe Sochacki, who guided the Bulldogs to an 11-9 record and a share of the Horizon League title in his rookie season last fall, has received commitments from four high school seniors for next year's team. The four recruits include three players from Illinois and one from Ohio.

"With the loss of only two starters from last years squad, a return to the NCAA Tournament is definitely on our mind. With the addition of John Mariscalco, Brad Johns, Scott Olsen and Harold Spooner we have gotten much deeper and I would expect these young men to contribute immediately," said Sochacki.

Following is Sochacki's look at Butler's 2002 recruits:

John Mariscalco, Archbishop Alter High School, Dayton, Ohio "John is as close to a veteran as an incoming freshman can be. He has been a fixture on the Region II 84 team for the past few years and was recognized as an ODP All American this past season. John will bring stability to our back four, as he reads the game exceptionally well and is an on the field leader. I look forward to seeing him challenged at this level and am confident that he will be a integral part of our success this season."

Brad Johns, Aurora West High School, Aurora, Ill. "Brad will bring a physical and athletic presence to the team that we dearly need. His athletic ability ranks him up there with the best kids we have ever had and he has a phenomenal work-ethic. There is no question he is one of the most physically prepared individuals we have had here at Butler. Brad is a member of the Chicago Magic and the Illinois State Team."

Scott Olsen , Harry D. Jacobs High School, Algonquin, Ill. "Scott is one of the few missing pieces we added to our attack. His versatility allows us quite a few options, as he can play either up top or in the midfield. Scott's fitness and his pace will make us a more dangerous team going forward and a stronger defensive team as well. It always excites you when you have a player as versatile as Scott, and we look forward to the contributions he can make in the fall."

Harold Spooner, Fenwick High School, Oak Park, Ill. "Harold had a great High School season and is the one sleeper in our recruiting class. He has excellent pace and a knack for scoring goals. His sprinters speed will allow us to stretch opposing defenses and give us new options in the attack. He again brings a great deal of athleticism to the roster and will be an wonderful addition to the team."