What Is 2013 Akron Zips men's soccer team

Overview

The 2013 Akron Zips men's soccer team represented the University of Akron during the 2013 NCAA Division I men's soccer season. Competing in the Mid-American Conference (MAC), the team was led by head coach Caleb Porter, who concluded his collegiate coaching career after the season to become manager of MLS club Portland Timbers.

Known for their disciplined play and strong defensive organization, the Zips consistently ranked among the nation's elite programs. The 2013 season marked one of the most successful in program history, highlighted by deep postseason advancement and national recognition.

• 16-4-3 record: The team finished the season with 16 wins, 4 losses, and 3 draws, marking one of the most successful campaigns in Akron’s history.
• College Cup semifinalists: The Zips advanced to the NCAA College Cup semifinals, falling 1-0 to Notre Dame in Cary, North Carolina.
• Top-5 national ranking: Akron was ranked as high as No. 2 in the NSCAA national poll during the regular season.
• Caleb Porter’s final season: Head coach Caleb Porter departed after the season to manage the Portland Timbers in Major League Soccer.
• FirstEnergy Stadium–Cub Cadet Field: The team played home matches at this 10,000-capacity venue in Akron, Ohio, known for its strong fan support.

Season Performance

The 2013 campaign showcased Akron’s blend of tactical discipline and offensive firepower. Despite losing key players from previous years, the Zips maintained a high level of performance throughout the season.

• Mid-American Conference champions: Akron won the MAC tournament, securing an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament with a 2-0 victory over Western Michigan in the final.
• NCAA Tournament run: The Zips defeated Georgetown, Fordham, and New Hampshire to reach the College Cup, outscoring opponents 7-1 in the process.
• Defensive strength: The team allowed just 10 goals in 23 matches, posting 13 shutouts, highlighting their backline’s consistency.
• Offensive production: Akron scored 42 goals on the season, led by forward Darren Mattocks and midfielder Scott Caldwell.
• NSCAA All-Americans: Three players earned All-American honors, including Travis Worra and Greg Witkowski, recognized for their defensive contributions.
• Home dominance: The Zips went 10-1-1 at home, leveraging strong crowd support to maintain a formidable home-field advantage.

Comparison at a Glance

Here’s how the 2013 Akron Zips compare to other top teams in the NCAA Tournament that year:

The table illustrates Akron’s elite status during the 2013 season. While Notre Dame ultimately claimed the title, the Zips matched them defensively and nearly advanced further. Their low goals-against total and high win count underscored their consistency and national competitiveness.

Why It Matters

The 2013 season remains a landmark year for Akron men’s soccer, symbolizing the program’s rise as a national powerhouse. It also marked a transition point, with Porter’s departure ushering in a new era under coach Dave Giffard.

• Legacy of excellence: The season reinforced Akron’s reputation as a pipeline to professional soccer, with multiple players drafted into MLS.
• Recruiting boost: Success in 2013 elevated Akron’s national profile, helping attract higher-ranked recruits in subsequent years.
• Coaching transition: Caleb Porter’s exit was significant, but the program maintained stability under new leadership.
• College Cup exposure: Reaching the semifinals provided national TV exposure and increased fan engagement.
• Player development: The season showcased Akron’s ability to develop MLS-ready talent, including future professionals like Scott Caldwell.
• Conference influence: Akron’s performance elevated the profile of the MAC in NCAA men’s soccer.

The 2013 Akron Zips left a lasting impact on college soccer, combining competitive success with long-term program growth and national recognition.