The Horizon League preseason poll released for the 2026 campaign placed the Purdue Fort Wayne Mastodons fourth overall, awarding them 89 points. The ranking reflects a strong belief in the team’s potential after a breakthrough season the previous year.
In 2025 the Mastodons finished as runners‑up in the league championship, dropping the title in extra time to Cleveland State. Their final record of 8‑3‑6, including a 5‑2‑2 mark in conference play, remains the best in Purdue Fort Wayne’s NCAA Division I history.
Key contributors from that squad are set to return. Goalkeeper Sep Habibi earned a spot on the second Horizon League all‑league team, while midfielder Jonny Hernandez was selected to the third all‑league team and earned a place on Top Drawer Soccer’s Top 100 freshman list.
The team will open the 2026 season on Thursday, August 20, with a home match against Xavier University. The game marks the first test of a roster that blends experienced returnees with fresh talent.
Coaches and analysts alike see the early schedule as an opportunity to fine‑tune strategies against familiar foes. The Mastodons will face Xavier, a perennial contender, before moving on to other Horizon League opponents.
Looking Ahead
With a solid foundation and a clear sense of purpose, the Mastodons hope to translate preseason optimism into a deep playoff run. The blend of veteran leadership and emerging stars creates a compelling narrative for fans across Indiana and beyond.
The excitement is palpable in the campus community, where alumni and students alike are eager to see the team build on its recent successes. As the season unfolds, each match will add a new chapter to the Mastodons’ growing legacy.