Men’s soccer coach David MacWilliams looks for tonight’s opener against Virginia Tech to be a confidence builder.

“I think the first game usually gives us confidence and energy, and then we just kind of go from there,” MacWilliams said. “You’re always searching for that first win, especially on the road.”

The Owls get the 2012 season underway in Harrisonburg, Va. as they compete in the James Madison Tournament. Following tonight’s matchup against the Hokies, they will face James Madison on Sunday before returning for the home opener at Ambler Campus on Tuesday.

The club has bared the brunt of some bad news this past week heading into the opener. Junior defenseman Drayt Friedman has been confirmed to still have concussion-like symptoms, an injury he sustained late last season. There is no timetable for Friedman’s return, who played a big role on the team’s defense last year.

Furthermore, coach MacWilliams’ son Matt has chosen not be apart of the team this season. MacWilliams started 13 games last year as a junior. His only goal was a game-winner against Jacksonville on Sept. 16.

The Owls also lost out on a high school All-American recruit, whose name could not be revealed.

“His grades just weren’t good enough,” MacWilliams said.

Virginia Tech is coming off a season in which they won only four games, one coming in Atlantic Coas Conference play. Forward Mikey Minutillo led the team in goals (5) and points (11) last season as a sophomore.

The Owls are set to play the Hokies tonight at 5 p.m.

-Tyler Sablich