Daytona State competed at the NJCAA National Tournament, hosted by Tyler Junior College in Tyler, TX.   With a mere 6 seconds left in the second OT the Daytona Falcons lost 2-1, to the #1 team in the country Salt Lake Community College on a 24-yard free kick.  The Falcon’s were on a 24 hour turn around after defeating the 12 seed Harford 4-0 the day before.  Unfortunately, the Flacons were picked to be the 8 seed forcing them to play back-to-back, while Salt Lake had a day of rest between matches.  “Take nothing away from Salt Lake, they are a great team. But that day of rest proved to be a major advantage.” Said Sasnett.  

The Falcons were down 1-0 at halftime despite dominating in possession.  However, just 4 minutes into the second half the Irishman Kevin Kelly found the back of the net from a cross from team leading goal scorer Yutaro Tsukada.  The match would remain tied through regulation.  It was the first time this season the Falcons were out shot 8-20.  “I’m extremely proud of our guys, they fought until the final whistle.  At the end of the day key injuries in the match to Prince Nwabudike and Yutaro Tsukada really hurt us.  Congratulations to Salt Lake they found a way in the end.” Said Head Coach Bart Sasnett.   

The Falcons opened tournament play on Wednesday, 11/16 with a 4-0 win over Harford Community College, MD.  It was an elite performance by the Falcons as they outshot the Fighting Owls 13-4.  Assistant Coach Joe Avallone on the win “The win vs Harford was a total team win and effort by all.  Our boys did everything asked of them.  They played with passion and poise on their way to a 4-goal performance and shutout.”  Will Diaz picked up his 8th shutout in the goal, a program best.   

Goals on the day:  

24:57 Yutaro Tsukada assisted by Duke Jeannestin  

39:31 Yutaro Tsukada assisted by Curtez Kellman    

55:12 Kevin Kelly assisted by Duke Jeannestin  

55:31 Kevin Kelly assisted by Yutaro Tsukada   

The Falcons were playing in their 3rd National Tournament since the inception of the program in 2016.  The program has claimed the Southeast District Title 3 times and the Region 8 crown twice.  Daytona ended the year 13-2-1 ranked 8th in the polls.  The overall record of the program stands at 76-20-6 (0.745) over 6 seasons.