West Liberty, W.Va. – Head coach Sean Regan enters his seventh season at the helm of the West Liberty University men's soccer program with plenty of optimism — and for good reason. Coming off a year in which the Hilltoppers tied their program record for wins, the 2025 squad looks deeper, more diverse, and more determined than ever.
"We've got a renewed energy about us," Regan said. "The competition for places is as high as it's ever been, and the excitement is real."
That competition comes in large part from a massive roster infusion. Eighteen new players have joined the program, including a mix of transfers and freshmen from across the globe, instantly doubling the roster size and adding a variety of playing styles and experiences.
At the center of it all is two-time All-MEC selection Jasper Newton, whose calm presence and work rate in the midfield make him the team's on-field compass. He's flanked by sophomore Lachlan Quate, who showed impressive maturity during his freshman season, and Barney Cowan, the kind of steady, dependable player who keeps things organized and does the unnoticed work that holds a side together. Brody Wall also returns in the midfield, bringing two years of heavy minutes and an expectation to take an even bigger role this fall.
In attack, Alex Watt leads the returning goal scorers, but much attention will also be on senior Oskar Vogues. After strong freshman and sophomore campaigns, Vogues spent the summer scoring consistently and arrives with renewed confidence to lead the line.
One of the more intriguing position battles will be in goal. AJ Cole held the starting spot in the spring, but freshman Emil Vernhamm, who developed in one of Sweden's top youth programs, and transfer Shai'ya Henry from Chico State both bring strong credentials and are expected to challenge for time.
The back line features a blend of youth and experience. Quate and Cowan will often drop deeper alongside sophomore Kevin Teather, who earned a starting role by the end of his freshman season. The defense will also get a boost from junior college standouts Oliver Greer and Jay Brunson-Hartgill, both captains at their previous schools.
After three consecutive trips to the Mountain East Conference Tournament, the Hilltoppers are aiming for more — a top-four league finish and, eventually, the chance to host a playoff match. Regan knows it will take sharper finishing in front of goal, better game management in the closing stages, and the kind of maturity that turns close games into wins. But with a strong returning core, an influx of new talent, and a group that trains and plays with real togetherness, he believes the path forward is clear.
The Hilltoppers open their season Thursday, Sept.4 against Seton Hill at 7 p.m. at the West Family Athletic Complex.
