The 2026 Peach Belt Conference men's soccer preseason coaches' poll has been released, and Flagler College sits atop the rankings with a perfect 36 points, underscoring its status as the unanimous favorite among league coaches.
North Georgia follows closely with 30 points, having earned a single first‑place vote and entering the campaign as the defending 2025 regular‑season champions. Their 8‑2‑2 record from last year provides a strong foundation for another title run.
Road to the 2025 Title
Flagler’s 2025 campaign featured a dramatic run to the tournament championship, highlighted by a 7‑2 victory over USCA in the opening round and a 3‑0 semifinal shutout of Lander. The Saints ultimately fell to North Georgia in overtime, but the performance cemented their reputation as a top contender.
The Saints finished the regular season third with a 6‑1‑5 record, then advanced through the NCAA Super Region 2 by defeating Young Harris and Palm Beach Atlantic before encountering Rollins in a hard‑fought match.
Key Players to Watch
Flagler’s roster boasts several standout athletes, including Filip Hornburg, who earned PBC Freshman and Defensive Player of the Year honors, and goalkeeper Ryan Rivas, a PBC All‑Conference selection who posted a 0.95 goals‑against average, 92 saves and 10 shutouts in 2025. Forward Callum Stokes adds depth to the attacking options.
North Georgia counters with PBC All‑Conference selections Max Mitchell and Isaac Calderon, both integral to the 2025 championship squad, while returning veterans aim to replicate their historic success.
The preseason All‑Conference team also features Camilo Velez of Clayton State, who leads the offensive charge for his team, and Daniel Becarra of Flagler, whose defensive contributions have been praised by coaches.
Other notable mentions include Owen Cunha and Javier Gongora, who were recognized for their impactful performances in recent tournaments, further enriching the conference’s competitive landscape.
Season Outlook
With Flagler’s defensive solidity and North Georgia’s championship experience, the 2026 season promises intense rivalry and high‑stakes matches. Coaches and players alike anticipate that the early poll rankings will set the tone for a fiercely contested campaign, as each team looks to translate preseason expectations into on‑field results.