DECATUR, Miss. — The East Central Community College men's soccer team enters the 2025 season with a fresh look and high expectations.

Head coach Ethan Paschal said the Warriors' youth and international additions give the program a new edge.
"Because of how new we are, we've got a lot of freshmen who already show the qualities we're looking for in a team," Paschal said. "The new internationals bring a great mentality, and their qualities give us an opportunity to take things to the next level."

Among the key returners are Michael Lismore, described by Paschal as "a guy who just competes and will do whatever it takes to win," along with leaders Malcom Price and Kade Shoemake, who set the tone on and off the field.

The Warriors also welcome a strong class of newcomers. Camilo Lopez Sanchez is expected to be a dangerous attacking threat, while Juan Jose Solano, a 22-year-old defender, brings maturity and strength to the back line. In the midfield, Daniel Ducculi will anchor play. "He has loads of potential," Paschal said. "By the time he leaves here, I believe he'll be that level of player who's a true leader."

Paschal said depth is one of the team's biggest strengths.
"We've got more depth than ever before, which gives us the ability to make in-game adjustments and play in different styles when needed," he said. "The biggest challenge is that we're still a very young team, so adjusting to the level of this league and understanding what it takes will be key."

The Warriors have set ambitious goals. Paschal said the team aims to earn a No. 4 seed and host a playoff game for the first time in program history.
"Our expectation is to make a playoff run and be a dark horse in this league," Paschal said.