A New Chapter for Skidmore Men's Soccer
The Thoroughbreds will open the 2026 campaign at home, hosting Buffalo State at Wachenheim Field on Saturday at 1 p.m., setting the tone for a schedule that blends challenging non‑conference opponents with a rigorous Liberty League slate.
A year ago Skidmore posted a program‑best 10‑3‑3 record, including eight shutouts and 26 goals, a marked rise from the 15 goals scored in 2024. The defensive foundation, anchored by a unit that kept clean sheets in nearly a third of its games, gave the team the confidence to compete with nationally ranked sides such as Ithaca and St. Lawrence.
This season the coaching staff, led by head coach Brad Campion in his third year, will test that foundation against a slate that includes matches versus Rochester, Plattsburgh State, Brandeis and SUNY Oneonta, each ranked in the top 50 of the National Power Index. The non‑conference slate also features a much‑anticipated showdown with Buffalo State, the 42nd‑ranked team, before the squad turns its attention to Liberty League rivals.
Key conference battles will see the Thoroughbreds host defending champion Hobart on Oct. 10 and travel to Vassar on Oct. 24, games that promise revenge for a semifinal loss the previous year. The Liberty League Tournament begins with the first round on Nov. 3, culminating in semifinals and the championship on Nov. 6 and Nov. 8, respectively.
The roster will welcome 12 newcomers, among them sophomore Quinn McInerney, who earned Second‑Team All‑Liberty League honors in 2024 for his defensive work, and seniors Collin Goodhines and Connor Mansfield, who contributed five and three goals respectively and garnered All‑Region and All‑Conference recognitions. Their experience, combined with the fresh talent, aims to sustain the momentum built over the past two seasons.
Coach Campion, whose overall record stands at 28‑15‑12 and who guided the team to consecutive postseason appearances, emphasizes integration of the new players and a continued push for excellence within the Liberty League. The program, which has produced two United Soccer Coaches All‑Americans and one CSC Academic All‑American, looks to add another chapter to its recent resurgence.