The Gannon University men’s soccer program enters the 2026 season as the No. 11 team in the United Soccer Coaches preseason poll, a testament to its recent triumphs.
After capturing the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference championship last year and advancing to the NCAA Division II Elite Eight, the Golden Knights return a core that helped shape that success.
A Season of Ambition
Head coach Billy Colton, now in his eighth year, is chasing his 100th career victory and hopes to become the fastest coach in program history to reach that milestone.
Returning standouts include Sverre Orten, who led the team with 17 goals and 12 assists in 2025 and earned D2CCA Ron Lenz National Player of the Year honors, Shota Toyama, the 2025 team MVP and All‑Region selection, and Gonzalo Perez, a key contributor on the Elite Eight run.
The roster will also feature new transfers Ryko Bodurov, David Ivascu, Ivan Capurro and Oliver Balazs, each bringing top‑flight experience to the midfield and defense.
The schedule comprises 17 regular‑season contests, eight of which will be played at McConnell Family Stadium, beginning with a home matchup against Lake Erie on August 27.
While the team embraces the excitement of defending its title, it also faces the task of replacing the leadership of Orten, Toyama and Perez, whose departures leave sizable shoes to fill.