Preseason Rankings Set the Stage
The Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WIAC) unveiled its 2026 men's soccer preseason poll, a vote compiled by head coaches and sports information directors that shapes expectations for the upcoming campaign. UW‑Eau Claire emerges as the clear favorite for the regular‑season championship, a position bolstered by a No. 22 ranking in the United Soccer Coaches NCAA Division III preseason poll. The ranking reflects the team’s recent triumph, having shared the 2025 title with UW‑Whitewater, and signals a strong start for the Blugolds as they aim to defend their crown.
Casey Holm, now in his fifth season at the helm of UW‑Eau Claire, brings a formidable record of 77‑16‑12 to the field. His steady presence has cultivated a culture of winning, and the coaching staff is confident that the blend of experience and emerging talent will keep the Blugolds at the top of the conference.
Among the returning standouts are Alek LaRoi, Noah Malcook and Tate McDermott, each earning All‑WIAC honors last season. Their contributions will be pivotal as the Blugolds look to translate preseason optimism into on‑field dominance.
UW‑Whitewater, positioned as the second‑ranked team in the WIAC forecasts, is guided by veteran head coach Tony Guinn, who enters his fourteenth year with the program. Guinn’s extensive tenure has produced a consistent winning culture, and the Warhawks are expected to challenge the Blugolds throughout the conference slate.
The WIAC tournament is slated for November 4 through November 8, with each match hosted by the higher‑seeded team. All six conference members will qualify for the event, and the champion will secure an automatic berth to the NCAA Division III tournament, adding an extra layer of intensity to every contest.
Non‑conference play opens on September 1, giving teams a chance to fine‑tune strategies before the WIAC schedule begins on October 2. Meanwhile, UW‑Platteville’s head coach Jesse Tinney, in his fourth season with a 36‑11‑15 record, and UW‑River Falls’ Evan Sassano, now in his sixth year with a 20‑51‑7 overall record, will continue to develop their programs as the league’s depth deepens.
Looking Ahead
With preseason expectations set and key figures poised to lead their squads, the 2026 WIAC men's soccer season promises competitive matchups and dramatic moments. Fans and alumni alike anticipate a year where tradition meets new breakthroughs, all culminating in the November tournament that could reshape the regional soccer landscape.