The Canisius College men's soccer team announced its 2011 schedule on Monday. First-year head coach Dermot McGrane released the 18-game slate, which includes a trip to California and six home games in addition to the MAAC Tournament at Walt Disney World in Florida.

"This year's non-conference slate will be a huge challenge for our young team, but will provide us with valuable experience that we will draw on all season long," McGrane said. "The MAAC games are always tough and every game is important. With all 10 teams making the conference finals this year, our first goal is to secure a place in the top six so that we get a bye in the first round - then the goal is to win the next three games."

The Griffs open the 2011 schedule with a pair of road games on the west coast. Canisius begins the season at Cal State Northridge on August 26 before wrapping up the trip with San Diego State on August 28. Canisius then remains on the road for a game with Syracuse on September 1.

The team then returns to Buffalo and hosts Delaware for its home opener when the Griffs welcome the Blue Hens to the Demske Sports Complex on September 10. Canisius also hosts Robert Morris in non-conference action, while playing at St. Bonaventure, Buffalo, St. Francis (Pa.) and Cleveland State.

Canisius begins MAAC play at home on September 30 with a game against Siena. The Griffs also host Marist, Manhattan and defending MAAC champion Saint Peter's, while playing at Fairfield, Iona, Loyola, Rider and Niagara in conference action.

All 10 teams qualify for the MAAC Tournament this season, held at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World Resorts. The tournament begins on November 3 and culminates on November 7 with the championship game.