A New Chapter for the Wolfpack
The 2025 season will be remembered as a watershed moment for NC State men’s soccer. The Wolfpack surged to the NCAA championship game for the first time in program history, only to fall 3‑2 in overtime against the Washington Huskies. The run propelled the team to a No. 1 ranking in the United Soccer Coaches Poll on three separate occasions and attracted record crowds, including a 5,000‑strong turnout at Dail Stadium against rival North Carolina.
Head coach Marc Hubbard, in just his second year at the helm, has cultivated a culture defined by chemistry and personal connections. His emphasis on teamwork helped guide the Wolfpack to a Sweet 16 appearance and a national‑title game, and he believes the same cohesion can translate into a championship.
Rebuilding the Roster
Key departures such as forward Donavan Phillip, midfielder Taig Healy and goalkeeper Logan Erb will leave sizable gaps, but the staff has already secured replacements. Sophomore defender Nikola Markovic, the No. 1 overall pick in the MLS draft, headlines a group of newcomers alongside Tyler Caton, Riley Moloney and Caden Tolentino, who are expected to assume larger roles.
The incoming class brings a blend of youthful energy and proven experience. Riley Moloney, named the No. 4 freshman in the country, will help lead the team’s development, while the chemistry forged under Hubbard’s system aims to smooth the transition.
A recent 3‑1 exhibition victory over South Carolina offered a glimpse of the team’s potential, providing valuable minutes for younger players. With the goal of “finishing the job,” the Wolfpack enter 2026 determined to convert near‑misses into a title, leveraging the momentum generated by a historic season.