The Monroe College Mustangs Men’s Soccer Team has made history by claiming their first-ever NJCAA National Championship! Competing in the NJCAA Division I Men’s Soccer Championship finals for the fourth time since 2011, the top-seeded Mustangs triumphed over No. 4 Eastern Florida State College with a 2-1 victory in November 2019.
It was a dream season for the Mustangs, ending with an undefeated 18-0 record, the first in program history.
Our players— Tobias Pellio, Daniel Haegler, and Luca Erhardt —were instrumental in this historic achievement. Following their incredible season, these NJCAA National Champions successfully transitioned from Junior College in New York to top NCAA programs across the USA.
Monroe College Wins First-Ever NJCAA Championship
Head Coach Marcus DiBernardo finally led the Monroe College Mustangs to their first NJCAA Championship after previous near-misses in 2011, 2014, and 2016. The Mustangs claimed the title with a dramatic 2-1 victory over No. 4 Eastern Florida State College, capping off an undefeated season for the first time in program history. Ranked No. 1 in the nation from the first to the final week, the Mustangs finished 2019 with a perfect 18-0 record.
The turning point in the championship game came with just five minutes left, as the Mustangs were awarded a penalty with the score tied 1-1. Tobias Pellio, who had already scored twice in Monroe’s 3-0 semifinal victory over No. 11 Illinois Central College, stepped up to take the decisive penalty. Pellio confidently fired to the left as the goalkeeper guessed the opposite way, securing Monroe’s historic win.
Head Coach DiBernardo reflected on the achievement:
“The players, first and foremost, are the ones who won the championship. They gave it their all every single day in practice and during all 18 games. They became friends, respected each other, and played for one another, which is what it takes to win together.”
DiBernardo also credited his staff and the Monroe College community, describing it as a “family environment” where everyone feels invested in the success of the athletic teams.
Outstanding Season – Outstanding Awards
The Monroe College Mustangs’ historic 2019 season was capped with incredible individual honors for their standout players:
- Tobias Pellio was named the 2019 NJCAA Div. I Men’s Soccer Championship Player of the Tournament (MVP) after scoring three crucial goals across the semifinals and finals. Over the season, Tobias tallied 5 goals and 7 assists, playing in all 18 games. His exceptional performance earned him the title of Junior College National Player of the Year, the highest individual honor in NJCAA soccer.
- Luca Erhardt had an extraordinary second season, leading the nation with 31 goals and 6 assists in just 18 games. He was crowned the 2019 NJCAA Division 1 Top Scorer, racking up 68 points, and was named to both the NJCAA First Team All-Americaand the United Soccer Coaches All-America First Team.
- Daniel Haegler was recognized for his contributions throughout the season, earning a spot on the All-Tournament Team after the final. With 8 goals and 6 assists, Daniel played a key role in the Mustangs’ perfect 18-0 season.
The Mustangs’ remarkable team effort and these individual accolades highlight an unforgettable season for Monroe College.
From NJCAA National Champions to Top NCAA Programs
After claiming the highest honor at the Junior College level, all three German standouts received multiple offers from NCAA Division 1 and Division 2 universities across the United States.
- Luca Erhardt chose to join NCAA Division 1 powerhouse James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Virginia, where he will continue his soccer journey with one of the nation’s top programs.
- Tobias Pellio and Daniel Haegler opted for NCAA Division 2 programs in Florida, known for their competitiveness. Both will compete in the prestigious Sunshine State Conference, often regarded as the toughest D2 conference in the country.
- Tobias Pellio accepted an offer from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and joined the team in the spring semester of 2020.
- Daniel Haegler chose Barry University in Miami Shores, Florida, but will complete his freshman year in New York before transferring in Fall 2020.
Their journeys from NJCAA National Champions to top NCAA programs showcase their exceptional talent and dedication to the sport, while also emphasizing that NJCAA (Junior College) divisions can serve as an excellent stepping stone for college players!
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