NORTH COAST, Calif. – The Mendocino College men’s soccer team was competing on Friday, Nov. 7, for a tie or a win to earn the conference championship in their inaugural season of competition.

The Eagles tied the game at 1-1 in the 64th minute to earn a point and secure the championship.

This conference championship guarantees a top 16 play-off spot and the opportunity to compete for the state championship.

“A wonderful group of young men that have worked incredibly hard for this achievement,” said Head Coach Shane Huff. “I couldn’t be more proud of this team that is made up of 100-percent Redwood Empire players. They are a hardworking group of individuals that feel honored and privileged to represent their community and Mendocino College. These young men give one hundred percent effort at each and every game.”

Soccer uses power point rankings to determine who hosts playoff games. Being a conference champion ensures Mendocino College’s playoff spot, but not a home game.

The last game of the regular season is this Friday, Nov. 14, at home vs Merit College.

If the Eagles win this game they will most likely host their first playoff game.

“I’m very happy for each and every one of these young men,” Huff said. “They have been given a platform to go to school and play a sport they love. These gentleman are competing against and beating all the larger JC schools. They have completely immersed themselves into the programs high expectations and standards set on and off the field. They are relentless in training and it seamlessly transfers to the games they play. They are a hard working group that is always striving to better themselves and each other! The playoffs will be another exciting and fun challenge for this team. I’m confident that they will continue to work hard and give themselves the best opportunities for success.”

The Mendocino Eagle’s men’s soccer team is currently ranked 14th in the country according to National Soccer Coaches Association of America.

Jessica Silva is Mendocino College's director of community relations and communication.