LA MIRADA, Calif. --- Biola Men's Soccer has made a number of important decisions during its 2017 camp. The Eagles chose to approach their unfamiliar schedule with excitement and an eagerness to learn, and most importantly, they have decided who they will be as a team: a collection of men motivated to represent Biola well and to play their hardest for the good of their teammates.

"Our players have made 'one team' the theme of this year's camp," said Head Coach Todd Elkins. "Over the last few weeks, I've seen the team get to the point where the players do not see each other as 'freshmen,' 'new guy,' or 'returner.' The new players have been able to walk right into the group because our captains and returners have said, 'If you're here to train and here to embrace what we're about, then you're one of us.'"

Team unity will be absolutely necessary for Biola to address all the challenges that come with transitioning to a new division and conference. Elkins focused much of camp toward preparing for the unknown as the Eagles adjust to new travel routines and new opponents.

"I appreciate how our new opponents are adding an extra element of excitement to our matches," said Elkins. "We have a healthy nervousness about being the new team in the conference that is pushing us to do everything we can to prepare for the unknown and to our opponent's unfamiliarity with us to our advantage."

Biola starts its season with a big matchup against No. 4 UC San Diego at home on Aug. 31. The Eagles start their PacWest Conference season with a test on the road against Dixie State at 11:30 a.m. on Sept. 23. The BUMS head to Azusa in early October to rekindle their rivalry with Azusa Pacific on Oct. 4.

During a unique stretch of the schedule, Biola faces three PacWest foes, who are also from the old Golden State Athletic Conference, in a row beginning on Oct. 21. After facing off with Concordia University Irvine at Irvine on Saturday, Oct. 21, Biola has a quick turnaround with a match against California Baptist University on Monday, Oct. 23. The following Saturday, the Eagles welcome Point Loma Nazarene University for their senior night and final home game of the season.