MOSCOW, Idaho – The Idaho Vandals soccer program is much more than just a team.  From the moment the athletes step foot on campus they are immersed in the family-style culture that surrounds the program, on and off the pitch.  For the Vandals, that commitment to the program, the University and the community never ends.  Here is part two of our Identity Series, “Ohana”. 

Since joining the Vandals prior to the 2014 season, head coach Derek Pittman has been committed to celebrating the history of the program while also administering the necessary changes to help take the team to the next level.  In just his second season in Moscow, the Vandals are already competing for a Big Sky championship, and those core values introduced by Pittman and his staff have been a guiding factor in the success. 

“This video series shows the core values that our soccer program is built on,” said Pittman.  “The first video was all about the grind and the hard work that our staff and players put in each and every day to get better physically, technically and tactically.

“This video highlights the strong family atmosphere that we aim to cultivate with so many competitive personalities. The message that no matter what is going on in your life, your teammates and our staff are here to help support, guide, laugh, cry and even celebrate our failures and achievements on and off the field. The wins and losses will come and go, but the relationships and friendships within our program are what will be cherished the most for years to come. Ohana means that we will stick with each other through all the many ups and downs that occur for our players each and every day.”

Vandals soccer took a further step to unify all its athletes, past and present, this summer, with the unveiling of the new Idaho Shield.  The shield represents the three core values introduced by Pittman and his staff, while also recognizing the deep history that is already present in the program. 

The Vandals have enjoyed tremendous success so far this season and remain the only unbeaten team in Big Sky play.  Idaho sits atop the BSC standings with 15 points after reeling off five consecutive wins.

Fans can stay up-to-date on all things Idaho soccer by following the team on Twitter and Instagram, @VandalsSoccer, or on Facebook by searching Idaho Vandals Women's Soccer.

For more information on Idaho Athletics, visit GoVandals.com.  Fans can also find Idaho on Twitter and Instagram, @Idaho_Vandals, or on Facebook by searching Idaho Vandals.