Indiana University’s men’s soccer program is gearing up for the 2026 campaign after a season that saw the Hoosiers finish sixth in the Big Ten and reach the NCAA Tournament. The departure of starting goalkeepers Holden Brown and Judewellin Michel, both of whom have exhausted their eligibility or moved on, has opened a competitive window for fresh talent between the posts.
At the center of the conversation is Michal Mroz, a standout from the University of Evansville who earned the Missouri Valley Goalkeeper of the Year award in 2025. Mroz posted a 0.95 goals‑against average and recorded six clean sheets that year, numbers that helped him become the No. 1 choice selected by head coach Todd Yeagley.
A New Guard Takes Shape
The coaching staff has not named a clear second‑string keeper, instead inviting Cooper Johnsen, AJ Piela and Ryan Hunsucker to battle for the role. Each brings a different résumé, from limited college experience to proven backup duties, creating a genuine contest that could shape the team’s depth chart.
Mroz’s entry into the Indiana roster was preceded by his selection in the 2026 MLS SuperDraft by Minnesota United FC, a nod to his professional potential. He ultimately decided to forgo the draft and join the Hoosiers, a move that underscores his commitment to collegiate development.
The season will open with a high‑profile matchup against Notre Dame at Bill Armstrong Stadium on August 20, a game that will serve as the first test of the new guard. Early games will also pit Indiana against Saint Louis University, a team that eliminated the Hoosiers in the previous NCAA Tournament.
Beyond the goalkeeping debate, the squad aims to build on a 2025 offensive output that ranked second in the conference, while maintaining a defense that posted a 1.32 goals‑against average. The blend of experienced outfield players and a rejuvenated backline could position Indiana for a deeper tournament run this year.