A New Era for GWU Men's Soccer
The George Washington University men's soccer program is set to welcome a dozen new student‑athletes for the 2026 campaign, a move that underscores the coaching staff's intent to blend seasoned experience with fresh talent.
Head coach Matt Watts has repeatedly stressed that the program will prioritize players who excel both on the pitch and in the classroom, a philosophy that has guided every recruitment decision.
The incoming class comprises six graduate transfers and six first‑year athletes, a balance that reflects the staff's desire to inject immediate competitiveness while building a sustainable future.
Among the graduate transfers is Foday Bangura, who arrived from Villanova University after appearing in 25 games with 19 starts and logging nearly 1,600 minutes of action.
Lucas Caldas, a forward from William & Mary, enters the program with the distinction of having been named Loudoun County Player of the Year in 2022, a testament to his high school dominance.
Midfielder Will Kelly brings Ivy League pedigree, having been part of championship teams at the University of Pennsylvania from 2022 through 2024.
Samy Kolby, a versatile midfielder who previously wore the colors of South Carolina, Virginia Tech and Charlotte, compiled 47 career appearances and contributed 11 points for the 49ers.
Webb Kosich, another midfielder, spent his collegiate career at William & Mary, recording 47 appearances, five goals and two assists.
Rocky Perez, a midfielder with stints at the University of Michigan and the University of South Carolina, appeared in 34 games with 24 starts over two seasons at South Carolina.
Joe Brayson, a forward from Newcastle upon Tyne, England, honed his game within the Newcastle United Football Academy from under‑8 to under‑21 levels.
Defender Carter Byrom, a Florida Dairy Farmers High School Sports Awards finalist and 3A Player of the Year, adds local talent to the roster.
Santi Cremaschi, a defender from Miami, earned recognition as a 2025 MLS NEXT Fest All‑Star and has experience with Weston FC and the Miami Futbol Academy Rush.
Axel Dickson, also a Miami native, was named a 2025 MLS NEXT Fest All‑Star and captured the U19 E64 National Championships Title at just 16 years old.
Jeremy Meloney, a defender from Teaneck, New Jersey, received a call‑up to the Trinidad and Tobago U20 National Team, highlighting his international promise.
Luciano Zuniga, a midfielder from Miami, was selected to the First Team Miami Herald All‑Dade (2024‑25) and earned a spot on the NAC Championships All‑Star squad for 2026.
With this diverse and accomplished group, the program looks to contend for conference honors and make a deep run in the NCAA tournament, all while upholding the character standards set by Coach Watts.