In a figural sense, Ahmed Dwidar has been here before.
The young, veteran program builder was similarly tasked with reviving a downtrodden and dungeon-dwelling Haldane nearly 10 years ago.
Dwidar, who implemented a 12-month program and green-lighted a pair of prolific scorers in Sean Daly and Chris Marchese, made the new regime's presence felt instantly.
While witnessing the same turnaround at Walter Panas is highly unrealistic, Dwidar relishes the challenge.
Panas was abysmal last season, as they couldn't muster one win.
Haldane went from laugher to Section 1 champ in Dwidar's inaugural season.
He implored the team to play fast and inject some swagger out there.
The camaraderie and workmanlike cohesion would make up for a razor-thin bench.
With such a lack of depth and playing such bigger programs and Class AA schools routinely, conditioning played a pivotal role throughout that memorable first bounce back season in Cold Spring.
Dwidar is known for his devout commitment to the player development component. He will utilize this as part of his niche under Walter Panas head coach Pete Pryschlak.
Dwidar said building and breeding an unselfish team that applies the basic principles of soccer is key.
Finding a group of guys willing to play together was instrumental in flipping a group of misfits into contenders at Haldane. The 31-year-old Dwidar won two sectional championships and enjoyed state tournament runs during his six seasons there.
He's regarded as a Section 1 throwback, with his commitment to scouting and breaking down film.
Dwidar said his best memories of Haldane was the pride and spirit of such a tight-knit atmosphere. He's exhausted with today's culture, where prized prospects leave Section 1 for greener pastures such as club and academy programs.
"Walter Panas has that electric atmosphere to itself in plenty of other sports," Dwidar said.
"Our job is to translate that energy to soccer and help build the pieces together in a style that emphasizes hard work and team desires first. Right now, we're starting new and assessing what we do have. We want the kids to play together, to love playing for one another, and prioritize progression."
Dwidar spoke about wiping the slate clean and entertaining the future only.
"Let's face it, after an 0-16 season, we know the only way to go is up," said Dwidar, who won a state title as a freshman at Wappingers Falls High School and is from Egypt originally.
"Getting better everyday is primarily what this season is about. We're not going to be a group which gauges our success or capabilities on wins and losses. We're going to find an identity and put forth the best brand of soccer we can. I think this team will be a great selling point for younger guys, and J.V. guys, and kids who might want to start playing. It is on us, the coaches, to ingrain in them that work ethic and desire to be good."