Hanlon, Werner, and Sinclair recognized for contributions

Florida College acknowledged their first seniors in the soccer program during halftime of the game against Clearwater Christian College. Coach Matt Qualls commented after the game. “I am very proud of the team, especially the seniors. They’ve made great contributions all four years and I hate to see them go.”

The seniors reflected on their time in the FC soccer program.

Tim Hanlon is FC’s all-time leading scorer. As of October 21, he had 100 career points, with 41 goals and 18 assists. He scored the first soccer goal in FC history his freshman year against Clearwater Christian College. He was also team co-captain his junior and senior years.

Despite having several different coaches, Hanlon recognized their efforts. “They (the coaches) have all helped me become a stronger player and I am thankful to them for that. They also had the respect for me to make me a captain and that has made me a better leader, because I always needed to stay positive even in tough games,” said Hanlon.

Hanlon was thankful for the spiritual environment. “The greatest opportunity I had playing here was to play with guys who share my same beliefs. I have played on many teams, but none compare to the values and support the guys have here,” said Hanlon.

Sean Werner fought through injuries to play for Florida College. He broke his collarbone during the first week of practice his junior year, and also had a bad ankle sprain early during this season.

Werner discussed the changes that were made. “The program started out pretty rough, but Mr. Qualls put in a lot of hard work to get us started. We came a long way from a bunch of guys just messing around to a real program,” said Werner.

Werner explained their love for the game at FC. “Every year we knew we were going to play a number of hard teams, and get beat pretty bad. Why did we keep coming back? Because we love FC soccer: saying a prayer before a game, the environment we play in, and that no matter what happened on the field, we formed true friendships off the field,” said Werner.

Steven Sinclair began playing soccer for the Falcons his sophomore year, after spending his freshman year on the baseball team. Sinclair played in several roles for the team, including goalkeeper and sweeper on defense.

“I’d have to say it has been great progressing with each one of the guys. It has also been great to watch the new players come to FC every year and grow as friends and players with them. The program has come a long way, from having only ten games a year to a full schedule with night games. I am very thankful for all the time and effort Coach Qualls has put into the program. Hopefully soon after we leave there will be another group of four-year seniors,” said Sinclair.