The Prairie Fire men's soccer team has earned a regional ranking for the first time this season from the United Soccer Coaches (USC).

Knox debuts in the 10th spot in the North Region after a 1-1 tie with Wartburg College on Monday. "We only need to look to our game yesterday where we out-shot Wartburg, currently ranked 23rd in the country, to validate we are a Top 50 program nationally," said Head Coach Tyler Sheikh.

Knox currently ranks first in the Midwest Conference in goals allowed per game (1.00) and shutouts (5). The Prairie Fire also rank second in goals (32) and goals per game (2.462).

Sheik says the focus for his team right now isn't to be ranked, but to make the Midwest Conference Tournament. "We know if we are improving every day at the little things and competing among ourselves with the biggest roster the program has ever had, 37 student-athletes, then we will be in prime position to make and win the Midwest Conference Tournament in November, " Says Sheikh." Ultimately, if we execute and score the chances we create in games, then it should be a great season."

The USC (Formerly National Soccer Coaches Association of America) releases rankings weekly and in the preseason for the eight regions and Division III soccer nationwide. Learn more about the Regional Rankings.