The defending NWAC champion Pirate men opened their 2021 season Aug. 15 against some tough, purple-and-gold-clad foes on Aug. 22, taking on Division I University of Washington.

The Pirates scrimmaged the Huskies for three 45-minute periods on the UW soccer grass pitch in Seattle.

PC coaches said the Peninsula men held their own at times against a senior-dominated team that went to the NCAA Elite Eight two consecutive years.

“The objective of the game was to provide a high quality experience for all of our players both returning and new; UW are a top 10 team in the nation, and they definitely played like it on Sunday,” Peninsula coach Jake Hughes said.

The scrimmage gave Pirate sophomore players a platform to showcase their talents as they look to continue their education and playing careers, he said.

“I was proud of how we represented the program against a challenging team full of senior players,” Hughes said.. We were professional, humble, and worked hard for the full period of time. We saw a number of good moments that we attribute to our training. We also saw some deficiencies and areas we need to improve. Perfect!

“Overall a great experience for everyone and a great opportunity to grow and develop.”

Peninsula’s men and women visit Western Washington University in Bellingham for scrimmages on Aug 19.

The PC men and women begin their official pre-conference seasons Aug. 25 at the Starfire Soccer Complex in Tukwila, both against Oregon teams. The women play Chemeteka while the men play Lane.