Waterville, Maine - There was excitement in and around the Bill Alfond Field as Colby Men's Soccer kicked off its 2025 season against Thomas College. Not only was it the season opener for the Mules, but it was also a debut for head coach Sean Elvert, arriving from Colorado College, where he served as the assistant coach. The beginning of his tenure at Colby, like at Colorado College, got off to a flying start as the Mules eased past the Terriers 4-1 in a non-conference matchup.

Although the goals came in the second half, there was plenty of action in the first 45 minutes as Colby were relentless offensively. Thomas invited pressure, sitting in a low block and trying to hit the Mules on counterattacks, but individual brilliance from Chase Dolinko and an extra man in the wide areas opened up the Terriers' defensive shape. Dolinko operated in the half spaces, frequently drawing one of Thomas' back line, which created space elsewhere. On the ball, he had the confidence to take on the opposition that even led to a controversial no-call for a penalty fifteen minutes in. The Mules ended the half with 11 shots that forced five saves, but ultimately couldn't force the ball into the back of the net.

Coming out of the break, the Mules' attack continued to pile on the pressure, registering six shots in the first ten minutes. The breakthrough came minutes later as the upperclassmen center-back pairing of Ryan Stewart and Jacob Sams connected for Colby's first goal of the year. Sams was the one on the scoresheet after a brilliant strike and a celebration just as energetic. The Mules doubled their lead five minutes later through freshman Jude Gussen, who capitalized on yet another great ball from Stewart. Colby conceded later in the half, but didn't look susceptible to a comeback from Thomas, proving that by winning two penalties in the span of five minutes, but only finishing one through Joseph Beshel. Gussen rounded out the scoring for the Mules with his second of the game, showing not only a great display for the freshman but an all-around dominant first win for the team.

The Mules are back in action this Saturday, September 6th, as they host rivals Bowdoin in their first NESCAC conference matchup of the year.