ANCASTER, ON - As the 2025 men's soccer season approaches, Head Coach Matt Hahn and his squad have their sights set on a historic milestone, one that reflects both competitive ambition and spiritual purpose. "Our primary goal this season is to secure a home playoff game and win a playoff match, something that would be a first in program history," says Hahn. "We also aim to compete for a spot in the NCCAA National Tournament, which is always a key benchmark for our team. Off the field, our mission remains steadfast: to develop champions for Christ through the transformative power of God's Word."

The team will lean heavily on the leadership of seniors Brendan Vanderkruk and Liam Dunleavey, both four-year starters. Their experience and maturity set the tone across the roster.
"Their experience, commitment, and understanding of what it takes to succeed at this level make them invaluable leaders both on and off the field," Hahn notes. "We are confident they will continue to lead by example."

This year's recruiting class is among the strongest in program history, adding depth at every position. Newcomers Clinton Owusu, Alexander Salo, Leandro Quan, Georgiy Gavalov, and Samuel Barnhoorn bring a mix of international and domestic pedigree, with some coming from elite high school and club programs, and others having drawn serious interest from OUA and NCAA schools. "This group brings a diverse range of experiences... With talent spanning every position from goalkeeper to striker, this class positions us well for both immediate impact and long-term success."

The 2025 roster is marked by increasing quality and internal competition, a challenge Hahn embraces. "The level of internal competition has never been higher, making game-day selections increasingly difficult, in the best possible way," he says. "Yet, even as competitiveness rises, so does the unity, camaraderie, and Christ-centred brotherhood within the group." After achieving the program's first-ever positive goal differential last season, the team is looking to raise the bar offensively. Fans can expect a shift in playing style. "With increased depth and versatility, fans can expect a more attack-oriented, high-tempo style of play. We aim to put pressure on opponents for the full 90 minutes and play with intensity and creativity throughout." The offseason was spent refining the team's system to suit its evolving roster, with an emphasis on tactical adaptability and player development. "As our roster finalizes, we adapt our system of play to best suit our personnel," says Hahn. "We've spent the offseason preparing tactical adjustments and refining our approach to ensure we are well-positioned for a successful campaign."

Every match in the OCAA West matters, and Hahn knows that consistency is the key to success. "Every game on our calendar is treated with importance. The next game is always the most important one," he says. "You can't win a season with one great performance, but one off night can cost you." One of the strengths of this team lies in how returning players create a foundation for incoming athletes. "Many newcomers remark that there is something 'different' about this team, and that difference is the love of Christ," Hahn shares. "While we compete with passion, our foundation is always built on mutual respect and unity in the Lord." Last season served as a turning point for the program. The gap between this team and top competition has narrowed, and that belief is fueling momentum. "Even in our losses last year, we were in every game, and with a few small changes, outcomes could have been very different. That growth fuels our determination moving forward."

For those unfamiliar with the deeper purpose behind the program, Hahn offers a clear reminder. "People may not fully realize how seriously we take our faith and calling. It's central to who we are and how we operate," he says. "On game days, we pray, worship, and share a devotional together before kickoff, and win or lose, we always close with prayer alongside our opponents. It's a powerful expression of who we are and why we play."

With experienced leadership, a deepened roster, and a clear spiritual foundation, the 2025 men's soccer team enters the season not just ready to compete, but to make history, together.

The Royals open the season September 5th at 8:00 PM in Niagara.  

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