Indiana Soccer Prepares for a Defensive Overhaul
The Hoosiers finished the 2025 campaign with 46 goals in 19 matches, a tally that placed them third in the Big Ten and continued a scoring streak that dates back to 2017. Their defensive record showed a 12‑5‑1 overall record before a second‑round exit in the NCAA Tournament at the hands of Saint Louis University.
The departure of forwards Ben Do and Victor Akoum left a void in the attacking third, and even the contributions of Palmer Ault, who topped the conference with 42 points, will be missed. Head coach Todd Yeagley responded by bringing in Ohio State transfer Nick McHenry, three‑star recruit Sam Hess from Naperville North, and freshman Vincent Uglow, who earned first‑team All‑Area honors in Pennsylvania.
A Shift in Strategy
On the back line, returning stalwarts Alex Barger, Josh Maher, Breckin Minzey and Luke Reidell combined for 19 points last season and have been named co‑captains for 2026. Barger and Maher will lead a defense that includes Kinsella, who has shifted from forward to centre‑back and already logged four assists in his second year.
The new defensive unit blends experience with fresh legs. McHenry, a former Big Ten All‑Freshman, arrives with seven points from his Ohio State stint, while Hess was celebrated as Male Athlete of the Year in 2026 and Uglow, a Pennsylvania three‑star recruit, adds both defensive solidity and offensive flair. The group will open the season against Notre Dame at Bill Armstrong Stadium on August 20.