Academic Honor Recognized
The Washington University in St. Louis men’s soccer squad was honored with the United Soccer Coaches Team Academic Award for the 2025‑26 academic year, a distinction that reflects a collective grade‑point average of 3.7. That figure ranks fourth highest among all Division III programs, underscoring the team’s commitment to scholarship as well as competition.
The accolade arrives alongside a season that has already etched its name into recent program history. WashU’s performance represents the best showing in nearly twenty years, a stretch that includes a Sweet 16 appearance dating back to 2007. The Bears also entered the preseason rankings at No. 14, a testament to the coaching staff’s ability to blend talent with discipline.
Looking Ahead
The team will begin its 2026 schedule at home, hosting Millikin on September 1 at 4 p.m. The matchup not only kicks off a new campaign but also provides an early test against a conference rival eager to challenge the Bears’ ascent.
United Soccer Coaches, founded in 1941 and headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri, is the world’s largest organization of soccer coaches. Its mission is to inspire coaches and ignite their passion for soccer to benefit players and the community, a cause that aligns with the Bears’ own aspirations on and off the field.
Elevating scholar‑athletes requires resources that extend beyond the university’s standard budget. The W Club, supported by alumni, parents and friends, provides unrestricted funding that enhances student‑athlete experiences and fuels departmental growth. Annual athletics funding ensures the Bears can compete at national levels, offering exceptional training, competition and leadership opportunities.