TUN WRAPS UP INAUGURAL SEASON AS HEAD COACH
BOURBONNAIS, IL. - Olivet Nazarene University's men's soccer team, guided by the leadership of head coach Mark Tun, celebrated a resounding success in his inaugural season. Wrapping up with a stellar 12-4-3 record, the team clinched both the CCAC regular season and conference championships, marking an impressive third consecutive triumph. Coach Tun reflected on the experience, expressing gratitude for the amazing support system at ONU and the strength of the community, which significantly facilitated his transition into the role.
Integral to the team's success was Coach Tun's emphasis on unity, a pivotal factor given the youthfulness of the roster. Navigating challenges arising from significant turnover, he lauded the team's ability to forge a collective identity, remarking, "Holding each other to a high standard and a high level of accountability was what helped us this season."
Setting ambitious goals at the season's outset, Coach Tun viewed the entire journey as an opportunity to establish a new standard for the team's conduct and performance. With a vision focused on gradual growth, he remarked, "This year was about setting a new standard with how we conducted ourselves in addition to how we performed and then striving to push that standard forward every year."
The season was punctuated by defining moments, notably crucial away wins against formidable opponents and the team's resilient response to a challenging stretch. Coach Tun highlighted these moments, stating, "Difficult moments really show the character of a player and the team as a whole. We were able to come together as a family, learn from our mistakes, and apply those lessons to the rest of the season."
Assistant Coach Nigel Dillard commended Coach Tun's dedication and willingness to seek input from the coaching staff. Dillard stressed the importance of sustained cultural efforts, citing Coach Tun's consistent message of "Work hard, be coachable, be a good teammate" as a guiding ethos for the team.
Assistant Coach Colin Nelson highlighted Coach Tun's proactive coaching style, characterized by a lack of stubbornness and a willingness to adapt strategies based on in-game situations. Nelson underscored the significance of relational approaches within the coaching staff, fostering a supportive and collaborative environment that contributed to the team's success.
Looking ahead, both Dillard and Nelson expressed optimism about the future of ONU men's soccer, citing the bright prospects shaped by Coach Tun's leadership and the cohesive efforts of the coaching staff.
Coach Tun's inaugural season not only yielded tangible success on the field but also set a promising foundation for the continued growth and achievement of the men's soccer program.
--ONU—
*Contact Anyssa Hampton, Sports Information Graduate Assistant, ahampton@olivet.edu