The St. John’s men’s soccer program closed this past decade in stellar fashion, notching a number of honors for on-field excellence.
The Soccer America National Coach of the Year in 2001, Dr. Dave Masur led the squad to a record of 135-48-41 (.694) in the decade and a 66-17-23 (.731) mark in conference action.
Since Masur’s tenure began, St. John’s has won three Big East Tournament crowns in 2001, 2006 and 2009 as well as two regular season titles in 2003 and 2008.
Masur has seen a number of exceptional players come through his soccer program at St. John’s. Two of the more prominent athletes to benefit from his coaching style are midfielder Shalrie Joseph and defender Chris Wingert.
Joseph was named as a member of the Soccer America MLS All-Decade XI, while Wingert was named to the College Soccer News All-Decade first team for his efforts as a collegian.
“Both guys are great personally and as players,” said Masur. “Joseph’s got an overall fantastic attitude. By doing everything, he grew physically and emotionally tougher.”
Wingert highlights the individual accolades of the decade, winning the M.A.C. Hermann Trophy as the top player in Division I soccer in 2003, the same year he was awarded first team All-American honors.
“Chris got better and better everyday he was here,” he said. “He’s a natural leader and he loved the intense, fast environment that we have here.”
The decade also saw the construction of one of the premiere venues in college soccer, Belson Stadium. Since opening on September 21, 2002, the Red Storm have posted a record of 58-8-15 (.809) at home. But Masur said their winning ways are more a result of preparation than setting.
“We want to win whether we’re on the road or at home, and that’s more because of the purposeful play of our team,” he said. “The stadium is a fun place and has a great atmosphere, but our success is because of a combination of pre-gram prep and every player earning their spot. There is no entitlement here.”
Masur holds himself to that same standard of entitlement. He insists on focusing his attention on the present and future success of the Red Storm, not the accolades of years gone by.
“We don’t like to look back,” said Masur. “It’s nice for nostalgia and the reputations of the players involved, but we’re looking forward.”
Looking forward, Masur sees more success for the Red Storm as they enter a new decade with their sights set on another 10 years of soccer dominance.
“It’s a new journey every year and we will collectively find our way with the players we have here,” he said. “Hopefully, the journey takes care of the games.”
