It was an electric night at the Algonquin Sports Field on Wednesday September 10th when the Algonquin Wolves soccer teams hosted the St. Lawrence Surge for the first home games of the 2025-26 varsity season.
The Wolves had success on the pitch with the women's team securing their 3rd victory of the season 5-2 and the men's team following suit with a 5-nil win.
The 2025-26 season marks the 50th anniversary of the 1st soccer championship in Algonquin history. In 1975 the Algonquin CAATS men's team defeated Centennial 4-0 in a two game total goal final to earn the OCAA championship. We were lucky enough to have a chance to honour 4 members who were in attendance at our home opener. Looking left to right in the photo, Lorenzo Bruno, Dave Knibbs, Mitch Sidwell and Ilhan Akemanol made their way back to campus.
We would like to thank Dave Knibbs who helped coordinate getting the group back together. Prior to the reunion we asked Dave a few questions about the 75-76 season and his experience at Algonquin. Here is what he had to say.
How did it feel to win the 1st soccer championship in Algonquin History?
"It felt surreal, the team was in awe of the achievement. We made history, and it will be with us forever more."
What were the main factors to the team's success?
"We had a coach (the late Peter Benedick) who believed in the entire squad. Practices were designed to get each player making maximum contribution in his position on the pitch, while ensuring that we played as a unit."
What impact did your time at Algonquin have on you?
"I became a better player, met people from different nationalities around the world. Got an insight into different cultures being around members of the team, and the student body in general. I also got my diploma from the Electronics Technology/Technician Department. The experience helped to shape my life as it is today."
Have you kept up with the Algonquin soccer program since you left? If so, how does it feel to watch other athletes follow in your footsteps?
"I have kept up with the Algonquin soccer program as much as I can over the years, and I am looking forward to another good season in 2025 from the teams, and their respective coaches."
How does it feel to reconnect with your old teammates from the 1975-76 championship season?
"It will certainly be a meeting to remember. I recall when I contacted Lorenzo Bruno about this reunion, he said, "Dave, this is the first time that we are speaking with each other again in 50 years."
Many members from this team won back to back championships after capturing the OCAA title in the 1976-77 season as well. We look forward to a potential opportunity to invite them back to celebrate again during the 2026 season.