The North Carolina men’s soccer team is rather familiar with the atmosphere at the College Cup, but UNC Charlotte is staring down the first national championship appearance in program history.
And that is quite obvious on the faces of the players and coaches behind the podium today. While UNC coach Carlos Somoano sat with his usual focussed and stoic look, the 49ers head man Jeremy Gunn lead off with a joke about his team’s practice.
His players flashed smiles and wide-eyed gazes all while showing enthusiasm for both their school and the city they represent.
“I think it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity, I don’t want to blink and miss anything.” midfielder Owen Darby said.
“I can’t remember theres been this kind of buzz about a sports team from Charlotte.”
Though the Tar Heels are heavy favorites as the top overall seed, the 49ers haven’t been out shopping for glass slippers by any means.
“We always felt we had the ability,” Gunn said. “You just have to keep looking forward.”
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