October 24, 2025/Midnight
Erie, PA. — The Gannon Golden Knights men’s soccer team has garnered national attention in recent years due to the team’s success on the field. However, many may not know the process behind the team’s player development. Gannon’s own soccer development team is a pathway for players to learn and grow before joining the main team roster. A few players each season are called up to the first team. The program participates in the Western Pennsylvania Development League against familiar schools like Seton Hill and Mercyhurst.
Gannon junior Troy Croscut-Miller is the Dev. team captain. He’s honored to be a leader with the ability to create a winning culture within the locker room. He says, “Being a leader comes with the responsibility of making sure our standards are high for every practice or game.” He values that it’s important to “push one another every day to be better players and teammates.
Troy chose Gannon because he was looking for an environment close to home where he could continue his soccer career. He called Gannon an “excellent” choice. He notes that sometimes it can get difficult to manage athletics and academics. “The balance between school and athletics can be challenging at times because you may miss some classes due to games.” He encourages student athletes to communicate with professors and stay on top of schoolwork to be successful.
The Dev. team finished with a 5-4 record during the regular season, finishing in second place. Gannon led the WPDL with the most goals scored and least goals allowed. The Golden Knights will take Seton Hill in the first round of the postseason on Friday, Oct. 24, at 1:00 p.m. With a win, Gannon will advance to the final next week. Meanwhile, the men’s soccer team will host Pitt-Johnstown on Saturday, Oct. 25, at 5:30 p.m. at McConnell Family Stadium.
If you or someone you know is looking to get involved with the team, reach out to assistant coach Micky Blythe ([email protected]). Gannon students can also participate in the club’s annual spring open practice.
