Gannon University’s men’s soccer program has been thrust into the national conversation as the 2026 United Soccer Coaches NCAA Division II preseason poll places the team at No. 11, signaling high expectations for the upcoming campaign.
A 2025 Campaign That Set the Standard
The 2025 season was a breakthrough year for the program, finishing with a 15‑3‑4 record, capturing the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference championship and advancing to the Elite Eight for the eighth time in school history. The offense was prolific, tying for second in Division II with 65 goals scored.
Head coach Billy Colton, now in his eighth year at the helm, brings a career record of 97 wins, 23 losses and 14 ties. His next objective is to become the third head coach in program history to reach the 100‑win milestone, a benchmark that underscores the stability and success he has cultivated.
Poll Foes and the Road Ahead
The preseason rankings are headed by defending national champion Midwestern State, followed by Rollins, Fort Hays State, Southern New Hampshire and California State Stanislaus. Each of those programs posted strong 2025 records, setting a competitive tone for the schedule that lies ahead.
Gannon will open its season on August 27 at 6 p.m. against Lake Erie at McConnell Family Stadium, a venue that has become the backdrop for many of the team’s recent triumphs and a fitting stage for the next chapter of this ambitious campaign.