A milestone season begins
The University of California, Davis men's soccer program is gearing up for its 2026 season with two high‑profile exhibition matches that will give fans a first look at a revamped roster. On Thursday, August 13, the Aggies host Cal, followed by a home clash with Chico State on Sunday, August 16. Both games serve as a preview of the talent that will define the team's push in the Mountain West Conference.
Head coach Dwayne Shaffer, now in his 30th year at the helm, enters the season with 269 career NCAA victories, placing him 17th among active Division I men's soccer coaches. His longevity and consistent success have become a cornerstone of the program's identity, and this year's exhibition schedule underscores his continued emphasis on preparation and competition.
The returning core features standout performers such as Nami Banks and Josh Gault, who were both recognized on the inaugural Mountain West Men's Soccer Watch List. Banks earned Big West All‑Freshman Team honors in 2025 after scoring twice, while Gault logged every minute of the conference tournament quarterfinal. Alongside them, veterans Gabe Haggerty, Ben Elkins and Declan Horio bring experience that helped the Aggies finish the 2025 Big West season at 4‑3‑2 and reach the tournament semifinal.
New additions to the squad include transfers Jake Hobbs and Isaac Chacing, who have previously competed at higher levels of collegiate soccer. Their arrival adds depth and tactical versatility, complementing a roster that averaged 15.3 shots per match last season, ranking 21st nationally, and posted a 3‑0‑1 record at home in conference play.
Looking ahead
Beyond the exhibitions, the Aggies' regular‑season slate begins with matches against Sacramento State on August 20 and Cal Poly on August 23 before the home opener against San Jose State on September 26. The team is slated to compete in the Mountain West's inaugural preseason coaches' poll, where they were selected third. As the program transitions into the Mountain West Conference alongside 15 other schools for the 2026‑27 academic year, the excitement among players, staff and fans is palpable.