The University of Pennsylvania men's soccer program has named its four captains for the 2026 season, appointing Connor Dawson, Jack‑Ryan Jeremiah, Joaquin Niehenke and Owen Sullivan to guide the Quakers.
Head coach Brian Gill emphasized that the selections reflect a deliberate focus on leadership development, noting that each captain has earned respect through consistent initiative and teamwork.
The campaign will open with a home match against Monmouth, scheduled for 7 p.m. the night after the announcement, giving the new leadership group an early chance to set the tone.
Leadership in Action
Connor Dawson will anchor the defense, having logged fifteen 90‑minute performances last season and earned first‑team All‑Ivy and second‑team USC All‑Northeast Region honors; his leadership helped the team record nine shutouts while allowing just twelve goals.
Jack‑Ryan Jeremiah, who has appeared in thirty‑five career matches and started thirty, will provide midfield stability, while Joaquin Niehenke’s 1,192 minutes of playing time last year highlighted his role as a key backline member who contributed to nine clean sheets.
Owen Sullivan, who featured in all seventeen matches last season and started four, is expected to be a cornerstone of Penn’s defensive line as the squad builds on its recent improvements.
Beyond statistics, the captains have taken proactive steps to shape the team culture, setting standards that players and staff alike are eager to uphold.