The United Soccer Coaches have placed the Vermont Catamounts at No. 13 in their 2026 preseason Top 25, a milestone that reflects a program riding an unprecedented wave of success.
A year ago the Catamounts captured their second straight America East Championship, completing an unbeaten regular season at 12‑0‑5 and finishing the year with a 14‑1‑5 overall record.
That run extended the longest unbeaten streak in college soccer to 29 matches and earned the Catamounts the No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament for the first time in school history.
Head coach Rich MacDonald, now in his tenth year, says the team is eager to test its mettle against the nation’s elite as the 2026 slate unfolds.
A New Era of Talent and Ambition
Two members of the 2025 roster have already turned professional, signing MLS contracts that underscore the program’s growing pipeline.
Maximilian Kissel joined Inter Miami CF, while Rui Aoki signed with Columbus Crew 2, both bringing top‑level experience back to the campus.
Goalkeeper Niklas Herceg, selected 16th overall in the MLS SuperDraft, elected to remain at Vermont for another season, adding depth and continuity to the back line.
The upcoming home fixtures against top‑25 opponents George Mason and Colgate promise marquee matchups that could further cement the Catamounts’ ascent.
Beyond the on‑field achievements, the program’s academic support and community engagement have reinforced its reputation as a model student‑athlete environment.
Fans and alumni alike are watching closely as the Catamounts prepare to translate preseason optimism into tangible results on the national stage.