A New Chapter for Liberty Flames Soccer
The Liberty University men's soccer program is set to begin the 2026 campaign in Southern California, where it will open its schedule with two matches against San Diego State. The team will play its first home game at Osborne Stadium on August 28, marking a symbolic return to the West Coast after a decade away.
Scott Wells, who previously led Gardner‑Webb to a conference championship, has taken the reins as head coach. He inherits a squad that finished the previous season with a strong defensive record and a goalkeeper who earned all‑newcomer honors in the Ohio Valley Conference.
Liberty’s transition to the Southern Conference represents a significant step up in competition. The Flames were preseason tabbed third in the SoCon poll, trailing Furman (ranked No. 3 nationally) and UNCG (No. 14). The shift also brings new rivalries and a broader geographic footprint.
The roster blends returning veterans with a wave of transfers from across the globe. Tyler Beck, the standout goalkeeper who started every match last year, returns between the posts, while midfielders Spencer Moler, Dylan Swinehart and Jayden Ramos provide depth. New arrivals include forward Samson Kpardeh, who topped Gardner‑Webb’s scoring chart with eight goals and two assists in 2025, as well as Javan Ochieng and Dan Rose, who add experience from previous collegiate programs.
What makes this squad unique is its international composition. Players hail from 13 different countries spanning six continents, giving the team a truly global perspective on and off the pitch. This diversity is reflected in the training culture and the team’s approach to strategy.
The opening match against San Diego State will be more than a season starter; it will also serve as a showcase for the program’s growth and ambition. With a mix of seasoned leaders and fresh talent, the Flames hope to make an immediate impact in their new conference.
Looking Ahead
As the team prepares for the August 28 showdown, the coaching staff emphasizes discipline, teamwork and the importance of representing Liberty University on a national stage. The upcoming season promises to be a test of resilience, but also an opportunity to prove that the Flames can compete with the best in the Southern Conference.