The Eastern men’s soccer team will begin its regular season campaign Friday as they take on the University of Illinois-Chicago.

Eastern is ranked sixth in the Summit League following a 1-5-1 record in the conference in 2012.

The Panthers enter this season with a new approach and fresh mindset that started back in the spring, when head coach Adam Howarth said his team began taking a new approach to their match preparation.

“We did some things that I think created a good atmosphere around the team,” Howarth said. “I think it was a really positive spring.”

But the aspect that sets the team apart for 2013 is the depth of the roster across all areas of the field.

When Eastern played Butler in its preseason matchup, Howarth played six different players in the team’s three central midfield positions.

“What we have as a squad is real depth in numbers,” said Jake Plant, the captain and senior midfielder. “We have a lot of games, and I think the squad is going to utilize that.”

Many freshmen have already made their appearances for Howarth.

Davis Wegmann started at left wing against Dayton and defender Gani Nuredini already appears to be a fixture in the starting 11.

Will Teichman also logged a vast number of minutes in all areas of the field. Howarth said Teichman is a utility player.

Howarth also said Teichman’s ability to play on either wing as well as both outside back positions might hinder his development as a player, but will be a boon for the Panthers.

Additionally, Nick Wegrzynowicz scored in the team’s intrasquad scrimmage from his position in the midfield.

The number of viable options in the freshmen class serves to accentuate the depth Eastern will have when players like injured red-shirt sophomore defender Spencer Filosa returns to the Panthers’ active list.

Tactically, Howarth’s team plays a 4-3-3 formation, playing with four defenders, three central midfielders, two outside wings and one lone striker at the top of the formation.

Eastern will play its home opener Friday in a regular season tournament hosted by the Panthers.

The tournament is being organized as a celebration of 50 years of men’s soccer at Eastern.

Summit League play will begin on Sept. 29.

Intra-league play is divided equally into home and away matches.

Three games will be played in Charleston, and the other three will be on the road.

The regular season will conclude Nov. 5 at home against nationally ranked Bradley, and the Summit League postseason tournament is scheduled to begin Nov. 15.

Eastern wrapped up preseason play Saturday, finishing 1-2. Howarth said from the beginning of the exhibition season that the most important aspect was the fitness of his players.

Michael Spencer can be reached at 581-2812 or at [email protected].