Preseason Buzz
Xander Martin, a senior midfielder for the Wake Forest Fighting Camels, has been selected to the Colonial Athletic Association’s preseason all‑conference honorable‑mention squad, highlighting his rising profile within the league.
During the previous season Martin logged 18 appearances, starting twice, and contributed a goal along with several assists that helped the Camels secure important wins, including a 5‑0 victory over Methodist College.
His impact was evident in matches against Methodist, Radford, Wofford and VCU, where his playmaking skills created multiple scoring chances for teammates.
The CAA’s preseason poll projects the Fighting Camels to finish fourth in the South Division behind Elon, UNC‑Wilmington and Charleston. While that places the team behind those programs in the standings, the coaching staff believes Martin’s experience and leadership will be pivotal in narrowing the gap.
Coaches have praised Martin’s work ethic, tactical awareness and stamina, noting that his vision and consistency make him a central figure in the team’s offensive schemes. As the season approaches, Martin says he is focused on converting preseason recognition into on‑field performance.
Fans and analysts are watching closely to see how the Camels will respond to the projected standings, and Martin’s contributions will likely serve as a barometer for the team’s overall progress throughout the upcoming campaign.