News Summary
The WashU men’s soccer team is focused on making a strong return to the NCAA tournament after a two-year absence. Under second-year head coach Andrew Bordelon, the team is bolstered by a mostly retained roster, despite facing injury challenges during preseason. With the addition of 14 first-year players, including a notable talent from FC Barcelona, the team hopes to navigate their upcoming schedule and build momentum towards a successful season, setting their sights on a potential NCAA tournament berth.
St. Louis, MO — The WashU men’s soccer team aims to make a comeback to the NCAA tournament in 2025 after a two-year absence. Under the leadership of second-year head coach Andrew Bordelon, the team is looking to turn the tide with a revamped roster despite battling significant injury challenges during the preseason.
For the upcoming season, the Bears are set to retain the majority of their players, allowing for a level of continuity that Bordelon hopes will be an asset. Key offensive players include senior Zach Susee, who earned First Team All-University Athletic Association (UAA) honors, along with junior Ethan Wirtschafter, who will serve as the primary forward. Defensively, the team will be anchored by junior Quentin Gomez, the previous year’s UAA Defensive Player of the Year, and supported by junior Carter Sasser, an All-UAA honorable mention.
In a blow to the team’s prospects, injuries have hit hard during the preseason. Senior defender Nate Szpak and speedy forwards sophomore Jamie Lee and junior Noah Cooney are among the key players sidelined due to injuries. To mitigate these losses, WashU plans to integrate a strong influx of incoming first-year players into their lineup.
The Bears have welcomed 14 first-year players for the 2025 season, a significant addition that the coaching staff believes will fill the gaps left by injured players. Notably, first-year player Daniel Kochen joined from FC Barcelona’s academy and is the brother of Barcelona goalkeeper Diego Kochen, bringing pedigree and talent to the squad.
In terms of competition, WashU has scheduled a series of non-conference matches that will not feature any opponents ranked in last year’s top 25. This softer start aims to build momentum heading into the competitive UAA schedule, which begins in October and November. The non-conference lineup will include matches against local rivals, Webster University and Principia College, providing opportunities for early tests against familiar foes.
The UAA schedule is expected to be rigorous, presenting the Bears with significant challenges as they navigate towards a potential NCAA tournament berth. With the return of key players and the infusion of talented new recruits, the WashU men’s soccer team is prepared to put their skills to the test in hopes of a successful season.
This season represents a crucial juncture for the WashU men’s soccer program. The absence from the NCAA tournament since 2021 has prompted a reevaluation and restructuring effort, with Bordelon emphasizing the importance of building a resilient and competitive team culture. The integration of talented first-year players alongside established veterans suggests a focus on development and long-term success, which will be closely monitored as the season progresses.
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Additional Resources
- St. Louis: WashU Men’s Soccer Aims for NCAA Comeback
- NCAA: Men’s Soccer Teams Poised for First College Cup Appearances
- Lansing State Journal: MSU Men’s Soccer Aims for NCAA Return
- SI: Oregon State Men’s Soccer Game Preview
- Noozhawk: UCSB Men’s Soccer Targets Another NCAA Tournament
- Wikipedia: NCAA Men’s Soccer
- Google Search: Men’s Soccer NCAA Tournament
- Google Scholar: Men’s Soccer NCAA Tournament
- Encyclopedia Britannica: NCAA Men’s Soccer
- Google News: Men’s Soccer NCAA News
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