The Mercer Vikings’ road to the national championship was not easy as the opening game against Rogers State proved to be a real challenge and was decided by a late goal by All-American midfielder Keith Mayer. It was a well-crafted play executed by Rich Maher in the final seconds of the game. The Vikings would go on to overcome Ulster Community College in the semifinals.
The national championship game against Lewis and Clark was played before a frigid crowd of 3,500 fans with home field advantage. There was equal play back and forth with forward Dave Pasquito coming close a couple times, but always thwarted by the stellar defending of Lewis and Clark. Then, in the blink of an eye, and a perfectly executed corner by Jorge Ferero, Bob “Tags” Tartaglia headed the ball into the net providing the only goal needed to seal the victory. It was a hard-fought victory with great defending led by goalie John Kolaski and defenders Harry Loughnane, Gary Maccaroni, Mike Wissing, and Anthony Verrelli. The midfield was the anchor of the team, led by Captain Keith Mayer, Rich Maher and Dan Fogler.
The 1982 men’s soccer team was a close-knit group of players from all walks of life. A mixture of local talent and players from different countries around the world, they were all bonded by the camaraderie of the “beautiful game.” The Vikings were coached by former England international star Derek Trevis who, in 1973, led the Philadelphia Atoms to the North American Soccer League title. He and assistant coach Joe “Sec” Secretario inspired the team to win the most memorable game of their lives.
Derek Trevis, Head Coach
Joe Secretario, Assistant
