This season for the West Point men’s team is a big one, as the Black Knights attempt to build on a strong showing in 2014-15 with a new coach, the loss of an inspirational leader, and new players.

This summer, Army hired a new Head Coach in Matt Sherman, and graduated Rugby East and ACRC MVP Collum Magee.

But they also have identified key leaders, with Donald Goff (no relation to the GRR editor Alex Goff), being tapped as captain. Goff, a prop, missed most of last season with injury, but did make it back for some games in the spring.  Fullback Andrew Borer ended last season on a high and Cameron Hargis was a go-to center on the squad. All three were selected to leadership positions within West Point, as well.

Borer and Hargis were in charge of Cadet Leader Development Training this year, while Goff was the Intelligence Officer for Cadet Basic Training.

And of course there’s also the addition of Sherman. The former Cal All American and Eagle flyhalf has served as Head Coach at San Diego State, Stanford, and the Collegiate All Americans. In a blog post on the Army sports website, senior Jack Ireland wrote: “I can speak for all of my teammates in saying that we are extremely excited to welcome Coach Sherman to our team and Brotherhood. We are ready to follow his lead and start another journey to reach national glory in the spring time.”

And that, above all, may be the goal for the Knights. Certaily Army did well last season winning the Rugby East, and earning a game against Life University in the ACRC Bowl Series. Army has made the DIA playoffs four times, and has lost at home three times. They don’t want to do that again.