The men’s soccer season came to a disappointing end last Wednesday night when the Catamounts lost 1-0 at home in the semifinal match of the America East Tournament.

The University at Albany, the reigning champions, went on to play the University of Massachusetts Lowell in the finals. Albany took home their second straight title with a 1-0 win after two overtime periods.

UVM finished the season with a record of 10-8-1 overall and a 5-1-1 record in the conference, finishing first in the America East.

This season the roster was full of young players, as seven Catamounts graduated last year. These graduates had scored 39 of the Catamounts’ 42 goals and registered 31 assists last season.

This season, a lot of new faces had to make the difference for Vermont.

Sophomore forward Justin Freitas and junior forward Geo Alves scored over half of the Catamounts’ 29 goals this year.

Sophomore midfielder Jon Arnar Barddal finished third on the team with two goals and five assists, tied for most assists on the team. He was also chosen to be on the America East All-Conference team.

Although scoring dropped from last year, the Catamount defense held up and even allowed two fewer goals. Led by two senior defender, Arthur Bacquet, he allowed only 1.32 goals per game.

Although two defenders are leaving, there are still strong veterans to protect the net. Juniors Arnar Steinn Hanson and Lucas Wartella are two returning defenders looking to keep their net clear.

After a disappointing ending to what looked to be a promising season, it is hard to think ahead to the next year. However, it is best to look to the bright side.

Young players showed promise this season, and will only return stronger next season, and with better chemistry. The team has time to stabilize its weak spots and improve on what they are already good at.

Next season shows promise, and this school year is not even near over. But for now, the team needs some well-deserved rest.