The 2026 men's soccer season is already generating buzz at Furman University, where a trio of standout players are poised to make a national impact. As the Paladins gear up for their first test, the excitement is palpable across campus and among fans who have followed the team's recent triumphs.
National Recognition
Diego Hernandez leads the charge, sitting at the pinnacle of the Top Drawer Soccer Preseason Top 100. His performance earned him a place on the Best XI First Team, and he helped guide Furman to a 16‑2‑5 record, securing the Southern Conference title and the school's inaugural NCAA College Cup appearance. Hernandez was also a finalist for the National Player of the Year award in 2025 and received a United Soccer Coach All‑America First Team nod.
Freshman Influence
Freshman midfielder Braden Dunham arrives with impressive credentials, ranking No. 4 in the same preseason Top 100 and earning Top Drawer Freshman Best XI honors. Having returned from a successful stint with the United States U‑19 National Team that reached the CONCACAF U‑20 Championship finals, Dunham brings a winning pedigree to the Paladins. Defender Luke Munson, ranked No. 91, contributed seven goals from the center‑back position and was named the 2025 SoCon Freshman of the Year. His ten clean sheets and three assists in 22 starts underscore his growing influence.
Season Opener
The Paladins will open the regular season on Thursday against Clemson at Historic Riggs Field, with kickoff scheduled for 8 p.m. The match will be broadcast live on the ACC Network, giving fans a chance to see the new-look lineup in action. With Hernandez, Dunham, and Munson all expected to feature, the game promises to be a showcase of talent and ambition as Furman looks to build on its recent successes.