GRINNELL, Iowa - The Grinnell College men's soccer team enters the 2025 campaign with high expectations and a clear goal: to contend for the Midwest Conference title.
Last fall, the Pioneers went 8-6-5 overall and finished fourth in the Midwest Conference, advancing to the semifinals before falling to Lake Forest College. Building on the lessons learned during the spring season, the team has set a unanimous goal of raising the program's standards and competing for a championship.
A major emphasis this year has been on strengthening the team culture both on and off the field. Head Coach Brian Jaworski, now in his 22nd season, continues to lead with his trademark passion and commitment. Jaws said, "I'm excited to get the season going. We've got a great group here. This group has worked as hard as any team that I have coached to become a TEAM."
Joining the staff is Assistant Coach Weston McPhee, who brings a diverse coaching background across youth academy levels with a strong emphasis on goalkeeping. His experience and fresh perspective add new tactical depth and specialized training to the program. Additional support comes from student-assistant coach Declan Murray '26 and student manager Nick Fahmy '26, both seniors who provide invaluable leadership and insight. Billy Cherres '26 also contributes by pushing the team in training, though he is unlikely to feature in game action.
This season, the Pioneers will be led by three captains who embody the program's values of leadership, unity and determination:
Oliver Northing '26 – A two-time captain and composed midfielder who anchors both ends of the pitch. Northing brings maturity, vision and stability, making him the heartbeat of the midfield. He shared his excitement about the squad's chemistry:
"I am extremely excited for this season, especially with an emphasis on how close the guys are. Day in and day out, everyone treats each other like family, and I believe it will show on the pitch."
Jaxon Willoughby '26 – A quick, intelligent winger whose work rate and creativity act as the glue of the attack. Willoughby emphasized the team's selfless mentality and drive:
"Everyone understands that no one is bigger than the team, and everyone is willing to work until they can't anymore for the team. We have leaders all over the pitch, everyone in their own way, ready to give it their all. We've learned from our past seasons and know what we need to improve and continue doing to compete with the best teams in Division III soccer. We're aiming to win the MWC and live up to the potential this team has."
Beacan Mottl '28 – A vocal, ambitious defender who brings intensity, leadership and grit to the back line. His presence sets the tone for the team's defensive identity and competitive edge. Mottl described the team's mindset:
"This year we are ambitious because we know not one player can make or break the team. It is a collective effort where every player knows what they can contribute and want to give it their all."
In goal, the Pioneers return veteran Jayson Kunkel '26, providing consistency and leadership, alongside emerging talent Jack Alexander '29, who represents the future of the position.
The defensive unit features a mix of experience and youth: Mottl and Emmett Krez '29 command the center, while Ryan Huang '26 brings unmatched stamina at wing back. Ezra Gould '27 adds pace and vision, with Moise Milenge '26 offering veteran stability.
The midfield is equally well-rounded, striking a balance between defensive strength and attacking creativity. Jack Pennachio '28, Ian O'Loughlin '28, Adam Gallegos '28 and Charles Elmore '29 provide a tough, defensively dominant presence, breaking up plays and maintaining control of the middle third. Their work rate and discipline create the foundation for Grinnell's style of play. In contrast, Northing and Jimmy Miseda '26 bring offensive flair, vision and playmaking ability, linking defense to attack and dictating tempo in crucial moments. The mix of defensive anchors and creative midfielders makes this group the engine room of the squad, capable of adapting to different game situations.
Up top, the Pioneers boast a dangerous attack with both speed and finishing power. Samuel Gojjam '27, Demi Oni '27 and Willoughby lead the front line with experience, pace, and technical ability, constantly stretching defenses and creating scoring chances. Behind them is a wave of promising underclassmen—Oliver Klemm '29, Trey Perlman '29, Luke Akosa '29, Zander Salva '29, Henry Lisko '29, Jake Brecknock '29 and Kanata Mizutani '28—all bringing fresh energy, hunger, and depth. This combination of proven talent and youthful spark ensures Grinnell's attack has multiple options and threats, capable of breaking down defenses in different ways.
The team opened preseason with a statement performance, battling to a 0-0 draw against 14th-ranked University of Wisconsin–Platteville. The match showcased Grinnell's defensive resilience and ability to stay composed under pressure, while also providing a glimpse into the offensive potential still developing. It was an early sign that the Pioneers are ready to compete with some of the best programs in the country.
With veteran leadership, an influx of new talent and a unified culture built around hard work and family-like cohesion, the Pioneers are poised to make a serious run in the Midwest Conference this fall.
