The Ouachita men's soccer team is ranked 6th in the 2026 GAC/MIAA Preseason Coaches' Poll, after a noted improvement last season. Under head coach Wes Holifield, the Tigers finished 2025 with a record of 6-9-3, including a strong finish of 5-2-1 in their final eight games. The roster features 20 returning players, including standout midfielder Andrew Castellanos, who earned first-team all-conference honors as a freshman. The Tigers will begin their 2026 campaign with an exhibition match against Southwest Baptist on Saturday and a regular-season opener on August 27 against Union.

By the Numbers
  • Ouachita鈥檚 2025 record: 6-9-3.
  • The team ended last season with a 5-2-1 run in their last eight matches.
Yes, But

While the team has seen improvement, the Tigers still face stiff competition from other league teams, including Fort Hays State and Rogers State, who received the most preseason votes.

State of Play
  • 20 returning players on the roster, showcasing team stability.
  • Key returning players include Andrew Castellanos and three leading goal scorers from last season.
What's Next

The Tigers aim to leverage their experienced roster and strong end-of-season performance as they kick off preseason activities and prepare for the regular season starting in late August.

Bottom Line

Ouachita men鈥檚 soccer is poised for success with a strong returning squad, but they must navigate a competitive landscape to improve their standing in the conference.