Paul Claes Nielsen, a sophomore midfielder for Belmont University, has been selected for the 2026 Preseason All‑Missouri Valley Conference Team, a recognition that follows a rapid rise after an impressive freshman campaign.
During his rookie season Nielsen contributed five assists and scored his first collegiate goal, helping the Bruins secure a 2‑0 victory over Lipscomb and earning MVC Offensive Player of the Week on September 23.
In over 1,100 minutes of play he placed eight of his fifteen shots on target, demonstrating a blend of vision and finishing that caught the attention of conference coaches.
Belmont enters the new season with momentum, having finished fifth in the MVC preseason poll with 25 points — just one point shy of a regular‑season title the previous year — and boasting eight wins in their last five seasons.
A Season of Opportunity
The Bruins will open their 2026 schedule at home against Memphis in October, a match that will test early chemistry as the team aims to climb the league standings. Defender Dylan Steely, a two‑year Preseason All‑MVC selection, anchors a defensive unit that helped the side post a 3‑2‑2 record in conference play last year.
Belmont’s program continues to build on recent triumphs, including hosting the MVC Championship match in 2025 and reaching eight victories in three of the past five seasons, signaling a sustained upward trajectory for the Bruins.