CARY, N.C. — Since the NCAA launched the first men’s soccer tournament in 1959, teams from the Washington region have made regular visits to the final four.
Maryland, Navy and Howard were among the early powers. Virginia’s eminence began 30 years ago. Maryland resurfaced at the turn of the century, and since 1985, American, Virginia Tech and UMBC have made unexpected runs to the semifinals.
This fall marks the fourth time in eight seasons that two teams from the soccer-rich region have advanced to the closing weekend, a foreseeable development given Virginia and Georgetown sat at or near the top of the national rankings most of the season before dodging quarterfinal scares to secure passage to the College Cup at WakeMed Soccer Park.