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The Wayland Baptist men's soccer team is already looking forward to next season. Despite a close 2-1 loss to Southwestern Christian University, there is excitement in the team for the upcoming 2024 season. The Pioneers ended the 2023 season with a positive overall record of 7-6-1 in a tough conference.

The men’s soccer team had a significant and satisfactory learning season this past fall. According to Assistant Coach Alex Castaneda, “I was satisfied with what our guys did … even with many injuries throughout the season. This season we did better than what in previous years was done.” Despite the many injuries, the team maintained a positive spirit and finished well.

One of the amazing team accomplishments for the Pioneers this season occurred during their match against number-one-ranked Mid-America Christian University (Okla.). WBU held MACU in a 1-1 score until MACU scored in the last two seconds of the game, winning 2-1. Coach Castaneda states, “Our team held the biggest challenge… the game against MACU was something spectacular for us and for all the teams in the nation that heard about the game.”

The team will say goodbye to 12 talented Pioneer seniors who will not return next year. However, coaches are already working to improve the overall quality of players for the coming year. “I think we have already upped the level of new players coming in to fill the spots where seniors are graduating and also to improve our weakness from this past season,” said Castaneda. There are rumors of at least 8 new quality international players.

Newcomer of the year Jose Colina (junior) from Miami, Florida, was a key player for the team. He was the only player who played all the minutes of every game during the season. Colina expressed his excitement for 2024. “I know we will do better next year; this year was a buildup season, but I’m ready to help the team win in any possible way and demonstrate what Wayland is made of.” Colina was considered by many the most important player of the season. His talent and sportsmanship will be something to watch next year.

The Pioneers seem to want to work harder and move up in the conference. Coach Alex Castaneda and Jose Colina express excitement for next season, knowing things will be a lot better next year. It will be interesting to watch the Pioneers return to action next season and face new challenges coming their way.