The NCAA dealt Virginia men’s soccer devastating news Monday, ruling that senior captain Ari Dimas will be ineligible to compete for the remainder of the season.
Dimas walked on to the Cavaliers in 2009 as a second-year student and quickly became a starter for the eventual national champions. In his first year at the University, however, Dimas had been a member of the men’s club team. According to NCAA bylaws, Dimas’ year with the club program counted as a year of varsity competition because the University sponsors men’s soccer on the varsity intercollegiate level.
The NCAA consequently found that Dimas’ eligibility expired following the conclusion of last season.
Dimas played in the Cavaliers first six games this year — two exhibitions and four regular season matches — but had not suited up for the team’s previous two contests. His participation will not change the outcome of any of the matches, but the athletics department must pay a $3000 fine.
Dimas absence will be missed in the midfield, where he was the Cavaliers upperclassman. Dimas played with a rare combination of veteran prowess and spirit that endeared him to fans and teammates alike.
Dimas played in 59 matches in his career as a Cavalier, including 48 starts. In his three seasons as Cavalier, Dimas tallied six assists and four goals—all of which were game-winners. In 2011 he was named to the All-ACC Academic Soccer Team and ACC Academic Honor Roll.
Dimas graduated from the University last May with a double major in sociology and philosophy, and he will continue his pursuit of a master’s degree in commerce. Dimas has also chosen to remain with the team as a volunteer coach.
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