Gannon University's men's soccer program unveiled its 2026 schedule on Tuesday, a slate that blends a historic 2025 campaign with a demanding new set of opponents. The announcement comes as the Golden Knights look to build on a season that ended with a PSAC title and an Elite Eight appearance.
A historic 2025 fuels expectations
The 2025 campaign will be remembered for its 15‑3‑4 record and a final national ranking of No. 11. The team capped the year with a 15‑3‑4 overall mark, securing the PSAC championship and earning a spot in the NCAA Division II Elite Eight.
The 2026 schedule comprises 17 regular‑season matches, split evenly between eight home contests, eight road games and a single neutral‑site fixture. The lineup features familiar conference rivals such as Lake Erie, Ashland, Post and West Chester, as well as a new non‑conference opponent, Felician University.
Key matchups and milestones
The season opens on September 13 with a historic first meeting against Felician, a program that has quickly become a non‑conference staple. Defending the PSAC crown begins on September 23 against Lock Haven, setting the tone for a campaign that will test the Knights' depth and resilience.
Throughout the non‑conference stretch, Gannon will test itself against Lake Erie, Ashland, Post and West Chester, each presenting a different tactical challenge. The coaching staff, led by Billy Colton, has emphasized preparation and consistency as the team moves toward another NCAA Tournament bid.
The postseason picture includes the PSAC Tournament slated to start on November 1, with the championship game scheduled for November 8. Should the Knights advance, they will travel to Kansas City, Missouri, where the NCAA Division II Men's Soccer Final Four and national championship match will be held at CPKC Stadium on December 3 and December 5, respectively.
Looking ahead
With a blend of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, Gannon aims to translate its recent success into another championship run. The 2026 schedule offers both a rigorous test and an opportunity to showcase the program's growth on a national stage.