High Point University entered the 2026 Big South Conference men’s soccer preseason poll as the clear favorite, capturing all eight first‑place votes and amassing 64 points, the first unanimous choice since 2012. The Panthers’ dominance is underscored by a 37‑1‑7 record in conference play since 2019 and three straight regular‑season titles, positioning them as the team to beat as the new campaign begins.
The preseason awards mirrored the poll’s hierarchy, with Daniel Lugo earning Preseason Offensive Player of the Year, Koven Johnson named Preseason Midfielder of the Year, and the defensive duo of Roman Holt and Lennart Granzow sharing the Co‑Defensive Player honor. Goalkeeper Josh Caron was likewise recognized as Preseason Goalkeeper of the Year, highlighting the depth of talent returning to the lineup.
Preseason Honors
Lugo’s offensive prowess, Johnson’s midfield vision, Holt’s defensive reliability, Granzow’s early‑season impact and Caron’s shot‑stopping were all highlighted by coaches and analysts as key factors behind the Panthers’ lofty preseason standing.
Adding to the excitement, High Point’s Daniel Lugo was drafted 29th overall in the MLS SuperDraft yet elected to return for his senior season, where he led the team in scoring and collected multiple accolades, including the 2025 Big South Male Athlete of the Year. The Panthers also cracked the United Soccer Coaches preseason Top 25 at No. 16, reflecting national expectations for a program that has turned consistent success into a recruiting magnet.
National Outlook
The 2026 season officially opens on August 20, with conference play slated to commence on September 19. The top six teams in the final standings will advance to the Big South Men’s Soccer Championship on November 14, an event that guarantees the champion an automatic berth in the NCAA Tournament.
Beyond the conference, High Point’s preseason No. 16 ranking places them among the nation’s elite programs, a milestone that reflects both the program’s steady rise and the impact of its recent alumni, who have transitioned to professional opportunities while still contributing to the team’s culture.
Fans can expect a competitive schedule that includes matches in venues ranging from Charlotte, North Carolina, to St. Petersburg, Florida, and even international trips to Hamburg, Germany, before returning home to face rivals such as UNC Asheville, USC Upstate, Gardner‑Webb and Winthrop. With a blend of experienced seniors and promising newcomers, the Panthers are poised to defend their title and chase a deep run in the NCAA Championship.