The BYU men's soccer team will open the regular season with back-to-back home games at Haws Field Friday and Saturday.

The team's first home game will be Friday against Oregon's Cascade Surge. The second of the back-to-back home stand will be played Saturday against the Spokane Spiders.

Both games start at 7:30 P.M. Ticket prices for adults are $6 and students or children can get in for $5. Tickets can be purchased at the gate.

Defender Drew VanWagenen said in order for the Cougars to have success against the Surge, they must transition quicker.

"We need to attack and transition from defense to offense quicker," VanWagenen said.

The team recently returned from an international trip to Fiji, where they went 2-2 in matches, but also participated in soccer clinics for children.

"Sports binds hearts," defender Daniel Turnbull said. "What better way to help the needy children of Fiji by making them smile when you give them something they need?"

Defender Clay Christenson also said Fiji was very helpful to the team on the field.

"Playing against solid competition in Fiji helped us find our feet," Christenson said. "I think we're ready to start a winning season this weekend."

One date circled on the Cougar's calendar is July 8, when the team is expected to host Real Salt Lake in the grand opening of their newly renovated stadium.

Some players have said the new stadium is a reflection of where the soccer program has come and is a tribute to the alumni.

The team has been preparing together for the past couple of months to repeat as the Northwest Division Champions.

"We've come a long way as a team since we started training together in March," Christenson said.

Students are also excited for the upcoming season.

"I love going to games and I am always impressed with the turnout," BYU student and fan Jason Curtis said. "BYU is a great soccer school."

Following this weekend's series of matches, the Cougars will hit the road for two weeks. The next home game will be played June 13 against the Yakima Reds.