Kentucky men’s soccer knew it was in for a challenge in the 2024 season after not being included in the United Soccer Coaches’ Top 25 preseason polls.
The lack of a number could hardly be a shock, however, seeing the results of last season, especially in comparison to the seasons before it.
Following a standout 2022 season where the Wildcats won the Sun Belt Tournament title and went undefeated all the way into the NCAA Tournament Sweet Sixteen as the No. 1 overall seed, last year’s performances fell short of expectations.
Head coach Johan Cedergren was also well aware of the work the team would need to put in and was determined to restore the Wildcats to their former glory.
“The staff has done a fantastic job finding players who can help us return to the level we were at in 2022, not like last year,” Cedergren said before the season.
The Wildcats have a history of producing Major League Soccer (MLS) talent and several current players were approached with opportunities to turn pro but instead chose to stay for another year.
One such player, goalkeeper Casper Mols, had been drafted to Atlanta FC in the third round of the 2024 MLS SuperDraft as the 77th pick but chose to stay with the Cats for the time being.
This was a major departure from many of the struggles that plagued the team last season as the program is very familiar with losing key players, sometimes far earlier than expected, to professional opportunities in recent years. These moves, while good for reputation and the individuals, leave massive holes on a college roster.
“We left December with a very clear plan of the areas we needed to improve,” Cedergren said. “If we can find specific players to fill those needs, that’s great. But if we can find talent that simply makes us better overall, we’ll bring them in too.”
His words ring true looking at the 2024 roster that includes numerous new signings in forward Lewis Johnson, midfielder Iker Carew and forward Nick Zielonka.
The infusion of these fresh faces is expected to create healthy competition for starting spots, pushing both new and returning players to elevate their game. The additions are also on top of the numerous freshmen joining the team that are sure to light a fire under the feet of returning players.
“It’s really exciting to have such a good squad and good staff to work with,” Cedergren said.
Kicking off the season, things were far from easy for the Cats, who needed three goals to topple Oklahoma-based Oral Roberts in the season opener.
Despite that, having earned the No. 23 ranking in the United Soccer Coaches’ Top 25 poll, a win is a win and the Wildcats are eager to continue their winning ways after a week break back at home.
Kentucky will kick off against Virginia Tech from right at home at the Wendell & Vickie Bell Soccer Complex on Monday, Sept. 2. The match is set to begin at 7:30 p.m. ET and will air live on ESPN+.
