The Southern Conference Football Media Day unfolded in Greenville, South Carolina, at the historic Hotel Hartness, drawing coaches, players and reporters from across the region.
Western Carolina’s Catamounts were slotted fourth in the league’s preseason coaches poll, a placement that reflects both the program’s recent growth and the competitive depth of the SoCon.
Preseason All‑SoCon Selections
Three Catamounts earned spots on the all‑conference teams, highlighting the talent that will anchor the squad this fall. Senior Ken Moore Jr. earned first‑team honors and was also named a preseason All‑America selection, while sophomores AJ Colombo and Zach Watson were placed on the second team.
Campus officials announced that fall camp will open on July 29, 2026, with the first full‑squad practice scheduled for July 30. The intensive preparation period will focus on conditioning, scheme installation and building chemistry ahead of the opening game.
The season kicks off on August 29, 2026, when the Catamounts travel to face Eastern Kentucky. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m., marking the start of a slate that includes matchups against traditional rivals and new conference foes.
University officials and the athletic department emphasized the importance of community support, noting that the upcoming season offers a chance to rally alumni and fans around a program that is steadily climbing the Division I ranks.