Men\u2019s and women\u2019s soccer begin their respective seasons this week hoping to bounce back after losing many key players, but optimistic at their chances for deeper playoff runs after recent streaks of success. It was a summer of change for Mercer soccer, both on and off the pitch.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Betts Stadium, the men\u2019s and women\u2019s soccer home field, underwent a seven-figure renovation to support the 2025 Club World Cup participant<\/a> Los Angeles FC\u2019s practice station in Macon. The renewal included a full remake of the grass of the stadium, which brought it up to FIFA standards. The university and Macon-Bibb County remains hopeful that it will be chosen to host one of the 48 participating countries in the 2026 World Cup.<\/p>\n Off the pitch, both squads lost key members during the offseason who were vital to their success in recent years. Last year\u2019s men\u2019s side fielded a record 11 seniors, who together had led the team to two Southern Conference championships in 2021 and 2023. In addition, the team lost standout sophomore Barzee Blama, as he was drafted to MLS team Charlotte FC<\/a> with the 77th pick in the 2024 MLS SuperDraft.\u00a0<\/p>\n As a result, the Bears will have to rely on their youth this season. The team has 12 new players, including four international transfers. While last year\u2019s first-round exit in the SoCon Tournament and 6-5-7 record proved disappointing for the Bears, there are bright spots on the team\u2019s returning young roster, including 2024 All-Freshman Team nominee Aaron Pondeca \u201828. The coaching staff also got a injection of youth, including recently graduated defender Sekou Agard, who last year led the team in minutes and co-led the team in goals scored.<\/p>\n Mercer will start its season at home on Thursday at 6:00 PM against Oglethorpe University.<\/p>\n