Men’s soccer coach Jon Akin discussed his background in the Atlanta soccer scene and the upcoming season for the Stormy Petrels with Jason Longshore of Soccer Down Here. Longshore is calling the soccer matches this season for Oglethorpe, and is also a part of the Atlanta United radio broadcasting team on 92.9 The Game.

“I’m in my 17th year at Oglethorpe, and it’s just momentum building over time,”Akin said. “We’re kinda seeing the fruits of years and years of labor. It’s by far the most comprehensive talent we’ve had in [my time].”

On top of an outstanding recruiting class of first year students, Akin and staff also have four Division 1 transfers joining the team for 2018. When asked why Oglethorpe is such a draw for these players, Akin pointed to the academic programs and environment.

“The one thing that we guarantee at Oglethorpe is they’re going to get a fantastic education. they’re going to be in arguably the most vibrant, young part of Atlanta. It’s an exciting place to go to school. And finally, we play a really, really good brand [of soccer].

“My job is to graduate these kids, help them have an enjoyable college experience playing. We try to bring balance to their lives and I think that’s resonating more and more with kids these days.”