A New Chapter for Ulster Soccer
Jamal Lis-Simmons is entering his 11th season as head coach of the SUNY Ulster men's soccer team, a program that last captured a Region XV championship in 2007 under the legendary George Vizvary. Vizvary's legacy includes 17 regional titles and 24 Mid-Hudson Conference crowns, setting a high bar for the current era.
The departure of Andrew Foster, a two‑year standout who finished with 31 goals and 14 assists and earned First‑Team All‑American honors, leaves a significant offensive void. Alongside him, defenders Max Maouris, Joe Maloney and Angel Rosario have also moved on, forcing the coaching staff to rebuild both ends of the field.
Despite the turnover, the roster retains experienced sophomores such as Aidan Ellis and welcomes fresh faces including Slate Scott and Oleh Shulha. Coach Lis‑Simmons believes the mix of veteran savvy and new energy gives the team the depth needed to compete against strong regional rivals like Suffolk County Community College.
Last season the Senators finished 13‑3‑2 and came up against Suffolk County in a 2‑0 regional final loss. The defeat set up a rematch scheduled for August 29, 2026, where Ulster hopes to reverse the outcome and secure a spot in the NJCAA national tournament.
Home matches will be split between Rondout Valley High School and the college's on‑campus field, providing familiar venues for the returning core. The Mid‑Hudson Conference schedule also features a familiar showdown with SUNY Westchester, a team they edged out in last year's conference final.
Lis‑Simmons remains optimistic that the squad can contend for the regional title and ultimately qualify for the national stage, continuing the program's tradition of competitive soccer in upstate New York.