Spartans Open with a Five‑Game Homestand
Michigan State will host Seattle University on August 23 at 2 p.m. at DeMartin Stadium, marking the start of a five‑game homestand that will shape the early portion of the season. The matchup is the first ever between the two programs and follows a 6‑2 victory over UAlbany that showcased the team’s depth.
The season opener against UAlbany featured five different goal scorers, highlighting a balanced attack that produced six goals – the most since a 6‑0 win over Western Michigan in 2008. Freshman midfielder Drew Rensing made his collegiate debut, while senior defender Brandon Munson contributed two goals and an assist, earning five points.
Seattle University entered the season with a 4‑0 loss to Saint Louis, managing only four shots on target. Goalkeeper Levi Beiber recorded four saves in his first start, but the team will look to improve its offensive output against the Spartans.
Returning Stars and Family Legacies
The Spartans will rely on returning standouts such as Brandon Munson, Miles Merritt and Peter Soudan, all of whom earned spots on the 2026 Big Ten Players to Watch List. Merritt, a transfer from Incarnate Word, brings experience from his native Albuquerque, while Soudan, the 2025 Big Ten Freshman of the Year, adds fresh energy. Damon Rensing, now in his 18th season as head coach, watches his son Drew follow in his footsteps, and Colin Arce’s father, a former MSU player, adds another layer of family connection to the squad.
Leadership will be provided by captains Richie Ludwig, Miles Merritt and Will Eby, while assistant coach Nick Barry enters his seventh year with the program. Their combined experience aims to sustain the early momentum built during the non‑conference stretch.
Looking ahead, the Spartans have a packed schedule that includes matches against SIUE, Niagara and Pitt before their first road test at Kansas City. The team hopes to translate its strong home performance into continued growth as the season progresses.