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 as they prepare to open the new season Thursday night at home against Seton Hill. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at the West Family Athletic Complex.
"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 has been fueled by a massive roster infusion, with 18 new players joining the program this fall. The group includes a mix of transfers and freshmen from across the globe, instantly doubling the roster size and adding a wide variety of playing styles and experiences.
At the center of it all is two-time All-MEC selection Jasper Newton, whose calm presence and tireless work rate in the midfield make him the team's on-field compass. He'll be flanked by sophomore Lachlan Quate, who impressed with his maturity as a freshman, and Barney Cowan, a steady and dependable presence who keeps the team organized. Junior Brody Wall also returns in the midfield, bringing two years of heavy minutes and an expectation to take on 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 enjoyed a breakout summer, scoring consistently and arriving with renewed confidence to lead the line.
One of the most intriguing position battles comes in goal. AJ Cole held the starting spot in the spring, but freshman Emil Vernhamm, a product of one of Sweden's top youth systems, 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, with Quate and Cowan capable of dropping deeper alongside sophomore Kevin Teather, who earned a starting role by the end of his freshman season. Junior college standouts Oliver Greer and Jay Brunson-Hartgill, both captains at their previous schools, add leadership and depth to the defensive corps.
The Hilltoppers enter 2025 looking to continue their rise after three consecutive Mountain East Conference Tournament appearances. This year's goals include a top-four finish in the league and the chance to host a playoff match — something the program has never accomplished. Regan knows it will take sharper finishing, better game management late in matches, and the kind of maturity that turns close games into wins, but he believes this group is ready.
"We've raised the standard each year," Regan said. "Now the challenge is taking that next step — and this team has the quality and togetherness to do it."
Seton Hill, a perennial contender in the PSAC, provides a tough opening test. The Griffins were selected second in the PSAC west division preseason poll, making Thursday night's match a strong early measuring stick for the Hilltoppers.
