Another year, another playoff appearance, but unfortunately another season of coming up short of their goal.

The Nipissing Lakers men's soccer team has been one of the most consistent in the OUA the past four seasons, earning a spot in the playoffs each and every year, but they have been eliminated in the first round in each of those four years.

This year's team is looking to change that.

The Lakers enter the 2016 OUA/CIS soccer season with high hopes thanks to a solid core returning, an impressive recruiting class and the experience necessary to make a long playoff run.

Lakers head coach Carlo DeVuono is excited about another season and believes the team has taken steps in the right direction each of his season's at the helm.

"I feel every year we are taking steps to becoming a better team. It's always exciting to start a new season. The team is gelling very well; e have a tight nit group," he said.

With the team opening up Friday versus Toronto on home field, the Lakers will be looking to get off to a quick start and set the tone for the season.

DeVuono feels his lineup will have a little bit of everything which is going to bode well for the campaign.

"We have a good blend of veterans and first year players. With this balance we will be a tough opponent for everyone," he said. "We have many veterans that I'll be looking to for leadership. Many of our veterans have plenty of game experience that will help them manage the season. We have such a good environment that on any given day anyone of our guys can step up."

The Lakers picked up a tie and a loss against Toronto last season, but with a new look, some new faces and a lot of potential, this year could be different.

DeVuono believes for the returning athletes, the playoff loss is motivation to begin the season strong and carry that forward into a successful year, full with a playoff position and a first round victory.

While it's too early to look at the post-season, the entire Nipissing team is ready to go.

"We have been looking forward to starting the season ever since our playoff loss last year. To lose late in a playoff game always leaves a bitter taste in your mouth. We're hungry to improve on last year," DeVuono explained. "It's important to start the season well. We have a short season and a good start will go a long way."

The goals are simple. The plan is simple, but the execution won't be.

The league is full of quality programs and Nipissing will need to be at their best each and every game if they want to win.

DeVuono is confident his team is ready for the challenge ahead.

"Playoffs are always what we are looking for. I expect to give every team a good match up. We are the second smallest school in the OUA but we will continue to overachieve," DeVuono stated.

The season begins with a home date Friday afternoon at 2:15pm at the Education Centre Field versus the Toronto Varsity Blues.