The Wheeling University men's soccer program kicks off its 2026 campaign with a fresh face at the helm: Jack Shearer, who was named head coach earlier this year.
Shearer, celebrated for guiding two high school teams to playoff appearances in as many seasons, brings a disciplined, youth‑focused philosophy to the Cardinals.
A Rebuilding Roster
The 2025 season ended with a 1‑15‑1 record, but the squad featured six freshmen among the 11 starters and managed a single shutout victory over Salem.
Returning starters include forward Jon‑Michael Gordon, midfielder Andoni Pipaon, and defenders Jorgen Bjerkreim and Pablo Prieto, all of whom will be expected to shoulder greater responsibility.
In goal, Diego Marquez returns after posting 51 saves and a .699 save percentage last year, while freshmen Alberto Madail and Michael Hinson will add depth to the goalkeeping unit.
Conference Outlook
The Mountain East Conference preseason poll placed Wheeling fifth in the north division, a ranking the team hopes to surpass as it fights for a tournament berth after a three‑year absence.
Head coach Shearer emphasized that the early schedule is designed to test the squad against strong non‑conference opponents, starting with an away game at California University of Pennsylvania on August 27 at 7 p.m.
The Cardinals are aiming to return to the MEC Men's Soccer Tournament for the first time since 2023, a goal that drives the entire offseason preparation.