The 2026 campaign for West Texas A&M Men’s Soccer opens with a trio of RMAC foes, beginning at home against Adams State on August 27 and Fort Lewis College two days later, before the team travels to face Colorado Christian on September 1.
Coach Butch Lauffer, now in his 36th year with the program, guided the Buffs to a 98‑52‑28 record since 2016 and has led the side to three NCAA Tournament appearances, setting the stage for another competitive season.
The Preseason LSC poll placed the Buffs seventh, reflecting a 6‑9‑2 overall record and a 3‑5‑2 conference mark from the previous year, while the team aims to improve on that foundation.
Returning standouts such as D’Jonte Davis, a Third Team All‑LSC selection who contributed 14 points in 2025, and Ben Scotford, who logged six goals from 19 shots, give the squad a solid core, while newcomer Felix Casas, who transferred from UT Rio Grande Valley, is expected to add offensive spark.
The defensive lineup also sees key pieces like Octavio Estrada‑Vazquez, named Defensive Player to Watch, and goalkeeper Zach Kos, who helped preserve a shutout in the 4‑0 victory over Colorado Christian last September.
A 2‑1‑2 record in the last five season openers shows the Buffs are accustomed to strong starts, and they boast a 25‑5‑4 overall record in opening matches, including a 16‑4‑1 mark at their home venue, The Pitch.
Historic Edge in RMAC Play
All‑time RMAC matchups favor the Buffs, who hold a 2‑0‑0 record against Adams State and an 11‑0‑0 slate versus Colorado Christian, underscoring the program’s consistency in conference play.
Despite a 2‑1 loss to Lubbock Christian in the LSC Tournament quarterfinals, the team’s seventh straight appearance in the tournament highlights their durability, and the coaching staff remains focused on building momentum heading into the new schedule.