Today, we highlight Men's Soccer midfielder Matt Lillia, who played a key role in helping the Roadrunners to an NJCAA Region 19 playoff berth in Fall 2024 and is enjoying another banner season this Fall under first-year RCSJ Coach Craig Wicken.
Year: Sophomore
Positions: Midfield / Back
Height/Weight: 5 feet, 11 inches, 166 pounds.
High School: Buena Regional, Class of 2024.
Major: Health Sciences. Hopes to one day gain employment as a physical therapist for a local or regional health care organization. Matt hopes to continue playing soccer at am NCAA D II or D III level school next season.
Favorite Activities: Matt and his teammates like to hang out together at each other's homes and on campus. He enjoys playing soccer and golf, as well as watching TV movies. His favorite player is international star Lionel Messi.
About Matt Lillia: Matt has played at a high level for the Runners the past two seasons. This Fall, he has played solid defense while contributing to the Runners' offensive attack under first-year Coach Craig Wicken.
Matt played four seasons of soccer as a center-attacking midfielder at Buena High, leading the Chiefs to South Jersey Group 1 sectional playoff berths in his junior and senior years. In his career, he scored 38 goals and dished out 11 assists. He produced one game where he netted four goals while scoring three goals in another contest. Matt also played three seasons of varsity tennis at second singles and first doubles.
Matt Lillia on his transition to the college game: "I find the college game to be faster and definitely more physical," he said. "Also, I've been trying to think multiple steps ahead so I can set us up for better scoring opportunities."
He has also attempted to drop back more on the field and improve his defensive skills. "The coaches suggested this move, and it's made me a more well-rounded player. I hope this makes a difference when I'm applying to NCAA programs for next season."
RCSJ Coach Craig Wicken on Matt Lillia: "He has been a tremendous player in our program," noted Wicken, who served as Runners' assistant coach in 2024 and as head coach in 2025. "He works hard and hustles all over the field. Matt will always listen to advice on how he can contribute, and he makes a lot of adjustments within his own style of play."