Rutgers men's soccer will host Seton Hall on September 4 and UC Santa Barbara on September 7 during the Labor Day weekend, building on a 4-1 victory over Sacred Heart that marked the program's first win of the season.
Roster Revamp and New Talent
The roster features 17 returning student-athletes, including seven starters from the 2025 campaign and eight of the ten goal scorers from the previous year, while 11 newcomers—seven transfers and four freshmen—join the squad, bringing diverse experience from programs nationwide.
Among the additions is goalkeeper Ponce de Leon, a Northwestern transfer who recorded five shutouts in 2025, and Amer Lukovic, whose prior tenure at James Madison was cut short by injury but who now adds depth in midfield.
Senior defender Nick Collins, a standout on both ends of the field, earned a place on the Hermann Trophy Players to Watch list after a season highlighted by a career‑high three goals and eight points, including a decisive game‑winning goal against Wisconsin.
Forward Andrew Kitch has paced the attack with two goals and an assist in the opener, and Charlie Kitch, also recognized on the 2026 Hermann Trophy watch list, contributes additional offensive threat.
Looking Ahead to Big Ten Play
The early-season momentum carries into conference play, as the Scarlet Knights are scheduled to meet No. 12 UCLA at Yurcak Field on September 11, a test that could shape their trajectory within the Big Ten.