As prospective members of the 2013 graduating class, you hit your first classes today at a most exciting time sportswise. The Illini have so many arrows pointing up, they look like a porcupine.

CHAMPAIGN — The 17th-ranked Illinois soccer team opened its regular season in dominating fashion Friday night.

The Illini bolted out of the gates with a pair of goals in the first five minutes, then turned to their trademark lockdown defense in a 4-0 victory against the Redbirds.

The Illini women's soccer team opens at 7 p.m. Friday with a No. 17 ranking and its eyes on a seventh straight trip to the NCAA tournament. Staff writer Jeff Huth's five things you need to know about Janet Rayfield's squad heading into its 2009 debut against Illinois State at the Illinois Soccer and Track Stadium:

CHAMPAIGN — Junior forward Christina Sahly scored a goal in the 68th minute, giving Illinois a 1-0 victory against Cincinnati in an exhibition match Friday.

Janet Rayfield's Illini kick off the season with an exhibition soccer match against Cincinnati at 4 p.m. Friday.

CHAMPAIGN — The Illinois soccer team was ranked 17th by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America in its preseason poll Tuesday.

Which former Illini is the best at his current sport?

1. Deron Williams, NBA — Utah Jazz star and Olympic gold medalist among top couple point guards in the league

Former Illinois and Urbana star Ella Masar is recovering from an injury, but she's still enjoying her first season in professional soccer.