The 2026 CCIW Preseason Coaches' Poll placed North Park University’s men’s soccer team third overall, awarding the Vikings 54 points and two first‑place votes. Only three points separated them from the co‑favorites Wheaton College and North Central College, each of which tallied 57 points.
Returning Talent Fuels Optimism
A victory over Wheaton during the 2025 campaign remains a highlight; the Vikings secured a 2‑1 road win at Joe Bean Stadium, the only conference team to defeat the Warriors that year.
Under head coach Kris Grahn, the squad advanced to the CCIW Tournament championship match, where they fell 1‑0 to Illinois Wesleyan. Despite the narrow loss, the run underscored the team’s resilience and tactical growth.
Experience and Depth
The roster returns eight players who logged significant minutes a year ago, including two All‑CCIW selections that bolster both experience and depth.
Among those standouts is midfielder Bastian Eikeland, a two‑time First Team All‑CCIW and All‑Region honoree who led the Vikings offensively in 2025 with 12 points, six goals and 17 shots on goal.
Defender Eduardo Cirilo, a 2024 All‑Region choice, anchored a back line that recorded nine shutouts during the 2024 season, adding stability to a defense that has been a cornerstone of the program’s recent success.
North Park’s consistency is evident in its nine‑year streak of finishing among the conference’s top four teams, a period highlighted by four championship titles since 2017.
Looking ahead, the Vikings aim to translate their preseason momentum into a deeper tournament run, leveraging a blend of seasoned leadership and fresh energy.