Lewis and Clark Community College’s men’s soccer program has become a quiet powerhouse in the junior college ranks, finishing the previous campaign with a 12‑5‑1 record that left many wondering why a national tournament spot slipped away.
Coach John Dunn, now in his third year at the helm, says the disappointment of losing the Region 24 championship to rival Illinois College still fuels the team’s resolve, but it also sparked a deliberate push to strengthen the roster for the upcoming season.
A Recruiting Surge from Across the Globe
Dunn proudly points to an incoming class of 18 freshmen that includes standout talents from Japan, South Korea and Italy, a mix he describes as “technical quality and intensity” that can match the nation’s best. The class is expected to fill gaps left by departures and add depth in key positions.
Among those returning are midfielders Shoham Litinski and defender Craig Moore, both of whom overcame injuries last year to become integral parts of the squad. Their experience, combined with the fresh blood, creates a balanced lineup that Dunn believes can handle the rigors of a tough schedule.
A Schedule Designed to Test and Refine
The Trailblazers will test themselves early with exhibition matches against Eastern Illinois University on August 9 and Missouri Baptist on August 16. The regular season opens on August 21 at home against Neosho County Community College, a game that will set the tone for the weeks ahead.
Later in the season, the team travels to Ottumwa, Iowa, to face Indiana Hills — a program that captured the national championship last year. Matches against former champions Iowa Western and other regional powerhouses are also on the calendar, ensuring that the team will be battle‑tested before the postseason.
Despite the challenging slate, Dunn remains confident that the blend of technical skill, physical intensity, and a cohesive unit will finally deliver the long‑awaited national tournament berth. “We have the quality to compete,” he says, “and we’re ready to show it on the field.”