Although it seems hard to believe, this academic year is quickly coming to a close. But it’s never too early to begin taking a look at who will be the favorites to win next year’s society cup.

Yes, many teams will be dependent upon incoming freshmen who are not on campus yet. And yes, some societies do not officially know who exactly will be returning from the previous year’s squad.

Just like picking the winner of the Super Bowl or the winner of the NBA Finals before the season starts, picking the winner of the Turkey Bowl is based on much uncertainty.

However, this uncertainty makes the season and writing more fun.

Without further ado, I am going to give you my top three teams heading into next year’s soccer season plus a sleeper.

The Cobras—The Cobras, as mentioned in last weeks’ issue are set up to compete in soccer for the foreseeable future.

They are dealing with one notable departure. Their keeper Christopher Monczewski, whom many considered to be their best player last year, was offered a spot on the Bruins’ team this offseason.

Plus they are graduating some players. But they are going to keep the majority of their roster intact which lost in the Turkey Bowl last year.

With the Cobras’ success in every sport, they will be able to rush good freshmen soccer players to replace the departures. Look for the Cobras to be motivated by last year’s disappointment and make a run to the Turkey Bowl once again.

Beta—Last year’s champion is losing as many as seven players to graduation. But the good news is help is on the way.

Three former Bruins players will be joining the team next year including four-year intercollegiate starter and all American Marvell Lareche.

Pair these three with former Bruin John Young, who was a key contributor on last year’s championship team, Beta should be loaded once again. Do not be shocked if Beta repeats.

Cavs—Many people around the league considered the Cavs to be one of the more surprising teams in the league last year as they made it to the semifinals last year before losing.

This year, they will be catching nobody by surprise. Most of their team last year was composed of sophomores and juniors.

Plus, the Cavs always get a huge rush. I have no reason to believe they will not have a huge rush again next year. That huge rush is more likely than not going to have some good soccer players in it.

Their youth plus their experience will lead them to another deep run in the playoffs next year.

My sleeper team is last year’s 7 v 7 champion, the Phi Beta Bulldogs. This is contingent on their society moving up to play 11’s next year.

But from what I have heard from their members, the plan as of right now is to play 11’s.

The Bulldogs may not have the most talent, but every single one of their players play with energy and with effort.

The desire to compete and win goes a long way in society sports, and the Bulldogs definitely have that desire.

Most societies will not expect them to be anything spectacular, but look for the Bulldogs to be a major player for the Turkey Bowl next year.