A New Chapter for Harding Soccer
The Harding Bisons will kick off the 2026 men’s soccer campaign on August 27 when they host Delta State, marking the first appearance of Thom Jacquet as head coach.
Jacquet, a Harding alumnus with a 35‑year coaching résumé that includes 410 wins and six state championships at Greater Atlanta Christian School, returns to Searcy after a distinguished stint that produced a 35‑year career.
The Bisons are trying to snap a 13‑game winless streak in season‑opening matches that dates back to 2012, a drought that has hung over the program for more than a decade.
Among the returning starters, third‑year forward Nojus Grudis will lead the attack after posting four goals and eight points last season, while veteran forwards Reik Barrack and midfielder Hayden Teixeira bring senior experience.
In goal, Dillon Hart is the sole returning keeper, having logged 14 saves in four appearances last year, providing a steady presence between the posts.
The season opener is the first of a three‑game homestand that will also feature matches against Dallas Baptist on September 3 and Christian Brothers on September 4, giving the team a chance to build early momentum.
Jacquet’s appointment signals the sixth head coach in program history and the first return of a Harding graduate to the sidelines, a move that fans hope will translate into a resurgence on the field.