Cape Express Alumnus Ryan Saul to Attend Division I UMass

PETERSBURG – Ocean City High School’s Ryan Saul, a central defender and captain of the Cape Express Soccer Club’s U-18 men’s team, has committed to play for the NCAA Division I men’s soccer program at the University of Massachusetts.
Ryan is the son of Stephen and Katie Saul of Petersburg and has performed at a high level for Express for the past four seasons. A Red Raider senior, Saul earned a Minutemen merit scholarship. He is a member of the National Honor Society and plans to major in political science.
Saul’s scholastic soccer accomplishments earned him First Team All-Cape-Atlantic League as well as All South Jersey honors.
“We are so excited for him,” said Katie Saul. “I can speak for him when I say this that he would not be where he is without the help, guidance and knowledge from his coaches at Cape Express. He has so much respect for coach Lucas and coach Saioni. Coach Saioni always gave Saul great advice and counsel and, most importantly, he listened to Saul. My son and I are forever grateful. It meant so much to know his coach cared about him not only as a player but as a person.”
“The offer Ryan received to attend UMass and play for the men’s soccer team is the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and commitment to improve,” said Mike Saioni.
“I am so thrilled for Ryan. This opportunity is truly deserved. One of the many great attributes Ryan possesses is his ever-present desire to learn and to implement what he’s been taught into his play. It has been an absolute privilege to coach Ryan. I have no doubt about his success in the future.”
Charlie Duccilli, Cape Express director of coaching, added, “Ryan is the prototype of Division 1 center backs. He’s big, strong, fast, and tactically sound as a leader from the back line.
As a Cape Express varsity player Saul has benefited greatly from his U-18 coach, Mike Saioni. Mike is a former Division I defensive center back who brings D-1 coaching experience to the team. Cape Express is very proud of Ryan and wish him continued good luck in his college career.”