Preseason Outlook
Eastern Illinois University’s men’s soccer program entered the 2023 Ohio Valley Conference preseason poll with a fourth‑place projection, a spot that reflects the momentum built in the program’s second year under head coach Ruy Vaz.
The Panthers posted a 4‑9‑4 overall record last season, finishing 3‑4‑3 within the conference, and earned a berth in the OVC Tournament, marking Vaz’s first year at the helm as a breakthrough.
Returning talent includes sophomore midfielder Connor Bayliss, who earned a spot on the OVC Preseason Players to Watch list after logging 642 minutes in 15 appearances last year, as well as forwards Gui Grangnano and Adam Boykin, who will again lead the attack alongside midfielders Landon Martin, Patrick Osilaja and defender Daniel Freire.
Schedule and Early Tests
The preseason slate begins with exhibitions against Lewis and Clark Community College on August 9 and the University of Illinois at Chicago on August 15, before the regular‑season opener in Omaha on August 20.
Conference play opens at Lakeside Field on September 26 when the Panthers host Western Illinois, a matchup that could prove pivotal as the team looks to replicate its tournament appearance from the previous campaign.
Conference Landscape
Lindenwood leads the poll with 11 first‑place votes and 94 points, while HCU and SIUE sit tied for second with 80 points each, underscoring the depth of competition that Eastern Illinois will navigate.
With a blend of experienced returnees and fresh energy, the Panthers aim to translate preseason optimism into a sustained push for the conference title, leveraging their early schedule to build chemistry before the rigors of OVC play.