St. Olaf College’s men’s soccer program has entered the 2024 season with a preseason ranking that places it third nationally, according to the United Soccer Coaches Division III poll. The No. 3 spot marks the second‑highest preseason placement in program history, trailing only the No. 1 rankings achieved in 2023 and 2024.
A milestone in program history
The Oles concluded the previous campaign with a 20‑3‑3 record, capturing the Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference regular‑season championship for the fourth time in five years, and advanced to the national semifinals before falling 2‑1 to top‑seeded Tufts. That run built on a streak of sustained success that has become a hallmark of the program.
Head coach Justin Oliver, now in his fifth year at the helm, has become synonymous with that consistency, blending tactical acumen with player development to guide the team through a period of sustained excellence. His leadership has been credited with turning the Oles into a perennial contender on the national stage.
Historically, the program has appeared in 53 United Soccer Coaches Top 25 listings, with 26 of those rankings arriving since 2021. The recent No. 3 preseason ranking ties for the third‑highest in program history, underscoring a resurgence that began just a few seasons ago and continues to gain momentum.
Analysts and fans alike anticipate that the Oles will again contend for a conference title and a deep playoff run, as the roster blends returning veterans with a highly touted recruiting class. The combination of experience and fresh talent positions the team to build on the foundation laid by a program that has consistently punched above its weight.