Bulldogs Set for Double‑Header Challenge
The University of Drake men’s soccer team is set to resume its season with a pair of non‑conference fixtures that could shape its early trajectory. On Thursday, the Bulldogs will host Central Arkansas at 7:30 p.m. in Des Moines, Iowa, before traveling to Omaha, Nebraska, to meet Creighton at 4 p.m. the following day.
A Season Marked by Firsts
Last year the program captured its inaugural regular‑season conference championship and secured the No. 2 seed for the Missouri Valley Conference tournament. The accolades extended to individual honors, with Eskil Gjerde repeating as MVC Midfielder of the Year and both Gjerde and Cole Schrage earning spots on the all‑conference first team.
Recognitions and Emerging Talent
The coaching staff highlighted a trio of standout performers: Tomas Butkovic and Sam DeLong joined Gjerde on the first team, while Tomas Butkovic, Sam DeLong, and Preston Kipnusu comprised the second‑team selections. Freshman midfielder Crew Alvarez was named to the All‑Freshman squad, underscoring the depth of talent returning to the roster.
Looking Ahead
Beyond the Arkansas and Creighton matchups, Drake will continue its homestand with contests against Green Bay and Wartburg College, beginning August 26. The schedule offers a chance to build momentum after a 2025 campaign that saw the Bulldogs finish second in the preseason coaches’ poll, trailing only Western Michigan.
Historical Context
All‑time, Drake holds an 8‑4‑1 edge over Central Arkansas, including a 4‑2 record at home. Against Creighton, the Bulldogs enjoy a 16‑3‑5 advantage but have dropped nine of the last ten meetings, the most recent being a 3‑1 loss in 2009. The team is eager to break that streak and claim its first victory over the Bluejays since the 2009 home win.