For the past two weeks, the NIU men’s soccer team has been preparing for its season opener against Bucknell Friday at the Northwestern Lakeside Classic in Evanston.

The Huskies have not strayed away from their daily schedule either, which has been practice, practice, practice.

NIU did have two exhibition games, but the consensus from the team is that they are ready for the season to begin, where they can face a team other than themselves, and more importantly, set out on their goal of winning an NCAA championship.

“We’re focused and excited,” senior forward Marcus McCarty said. “This is our time. Everyone’s ready to get on the field and play a game that has meaning.”

Though the Huskies are ready to get the season underway, they know the work they’ve put in this preseason hasn’t been for nothing.

“I think we get a lot more out of [practice] than we do games anyway,” midfielder Steve Kolzow said. “This is so much more intense. It’s good to come out here and battle with each other so we’re ready to go for games.”

The Huskies achieved a lot as a team last season, but they know just getting that far again this year is unacceptable.

“For us, we shouldn’t be happy losing,” McCarty said. “When you lose, some people consider that a good year. We consider that coming up short. We can do better this year than last year.”

Bucknell was in similar territory to the Huskies last year, advancing to the NCAA Tournament for the first time in 30 years.

The Bison are anchored by goalkeeper Joey Kuterbach. The senior logged eight shutouts last season and was also named the Patriot League Tournament MVP.

The Bison also have plenty of returning experience as well, as they graduated only one senior.

“I know we’re excited to play, especially after last season,” Kolzow said. “We’re ready to get back into it. I think everyone’s ready.”