Waxahachie, TX - The Nelson University Men's Soccer team enters the 2026 season with high hopes to build off of last year's success. The Lion's are coming off a 2025 campaign where they finished 5th in the Sooner Athletic Conference (SAC) standings and made it to the NCCAA Final Four.
Preseason Look in the SAC
The Nelson Lions placed 6th in the 2026 SAC Men's Soccer Preseason Coaches' Poll after receiving 36 points. The Lions will look to climb the rankings as they battle this season.
Veteran Lions
The Lions were able to bring back some key pieces from their 2025 season, hoping to continue their previous success.
- Yael Sandoval (Striker) - Returning caption and senior that provides veteran leadership.
- Joel Palmer (Winger) - Talented offensive threat who had 5 goals and 3 assists last year.
- Pascoal Manuel (Defender) - Solid piece of the Nelson back line, was a previous two-time Player of the Week award recipient.
New Faces
In addition to their key returners, the Lions brought in some talent to increase the level of talent and the depth to their roster.
- Maquan Aldridge (Striker) - Talented Division 1 transfer that will provide a spark to the Lion attack.
- Oscar Otero (Midfielder) - Two-time National Champion looking to add his winning experience to the program.
- Caleb Cuellar (Midfielder) - Talented young freshman manning the middle.
- Thyeim Shaw (Defender) - Form All-Region selection and a key piece of the Nelson defense.
Coach's Corner
Nelson University Head Men's Soccer Coach Cesar España states that "the most exciting part about this upcoming season is the opportunity to see this group grow together and establish the identity of Nelson Men's Soccer." Espana says "fans can look forward to a team that plays with energy, passion, and togetherness."
Early Challenges
The Nelson Lions will begin their season on the road as they travel to take on Texas A&M Texarkana on August 29 at 5:00 PM.
They will return to the Lion's Athletic Complex to make their home debut on September 1 against the University of Houston-Victoria at 6 PM.
To come support your Lion's, purchase your tickets here:
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Nelson University (formerly SAGU) is a private Christian university, established in 1927 by P.C. Nelson. The University is located 30 minutes south of the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex in Waxahachie, Texas, and offers more than 70 associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees on campus or online. For more information, visit www.nelson.edu or by calling 1-888-YES-NELSON.
