Soccer America ranks UCLA 13th, Richey preseason all-American

WALNUT CREEK, Calif. - Pac-12 men’s soccer received more national recognition as Soccer America tabbed UCLA at No. 13 in its preseason top-25 poll and named WASHINGTON’s Spencer Richey a preseason All-American, the organization announced this week. 

The Bruins are looking for their third-straight Pac-12 Championship in 2013. Led by seniors Reed Williams and Joe Sofia, UCLA returns six starters and brings in the No. 1-recruiting class in the nation as ranked by College Soccer News. The season opener will prove to be a tough weekend for the Bruins as they travel to face Notre Dame and reigning NCAA Champion Indiana, ranked seventh and second by Soccer America, respectively. 

Richey, one of three goalkeepers recognized by Soccer America, is the sole individual Pac-12 representative on the preseason all-American list. One of the key senior leaders on the Huskies’ roster, Richey earned first team All-Pac-12 honors after he led the Conference in goals-against average (0.46) and saves percentage (.875) last year. He was also named a preseason all-American by College Soccer News. 

The six Pac-12 men’s soccer teams kick off their 2013 season today through Sunday, Aug. 30-Sept. 1. For the second-consecutive year, men’s soccer will receive unprecedented broadcast coverage as 28 matches will air on the Pac-12 Networks throughout the year. For more information and to view the 2013 television schedule, visit www.pac-12.com. To learn more about the Soccer America poll and to view the complete preseason top-25 and all-American lists, visit www.socceramerica.com.