EVANSVILLE -- Following a successful launch a year ago, the University of Evansville men's soccer program and head coach Marshall Ray are excited for the second year of UEFC as the Purple Aces begin to inch closer to preseason.

"I'm excited about our 2016 season and the new faces that we are bringing in to mix with our returners," Ray said. "I also look forward to the continued success and growth of UEFC. Our success on the field will be directly correlated to the continued growth of UEFC. I'm confident that with that support, we are moving our program in a positive direction."

"UEFC is a membership-based supporters group. We want our fans to be a part of this program and feel invested in it," Ray continued. "Going into the match and cheering for the Aces is just the beginning. When you join UEFC, you have the opportunity to be part of something bigger. This program is fortunate to have tremendous support on campus, from the surrounding Evansville community as well as our alumni base."

In the first year of UEFC, over 150 members contributed to the further development of the program, which allowed UE to make significant upgrades to the gameday experience as well as provide staff and players the the resources it needs to begin to reestablish its rich soccer tradition.

UEFC also provides a unique identity for both UE soccer programs, and the crest will be used to identify not just the supporters group, but the team as well.