The Ecclesia College Royals men's soccer program closed out the 2025 season with plenty to be proud of, capping a year of growth, grit, and firsts under new leadership.
A Year of Transition — and Breakthroughs
Under first-year head coach Christian Castro, the Royals roster underwent a major overhaul. Over the summer Coach Castro and his staff assembled a largely new squad that arrived ready to fight for every inch. That fresh energy paid off: despite the challenges of building chemistry, Ecclesia finished with a respectable 4-5-3 overall record, going 3-1 at home and earning a spot in the conference playoff push.
But more than just wins and losses — this was a season of laying the foundation. The team showed flashes of talent, heart, and resilience in match after match as the newcomers learned to trust one another on the field.
Making History: National Championship Return
Even more impressive than the regular-season record was the team's return to the national stage. The Royals earned a berth in the NCCAA Division I Men's Soccer National Championship — marking their first appearance at the D1 national tournament since 2019.
That milestone underscores how far the program has come under Coach Castro. With a roster largely built this summer, the Royals didn't just compete — they earned their way back into national reckoning.
Growth, Resilience, and a Vision Forward
Though the season had its ups and downs, the bigger victory lies in the progress: new players gelling, competitive games, and a return to the big stage. The challenges of a transition year — new tactics, new faces, new chemistry — only make this season's achievements more meaningful.
Looking ahead, the lessons learned and foundations laid this year could serve as the launching pad for future success. With the momentum of a national tournament appearance and a coaching staff committed to building, Ecclesia men's soccer has reasons for optimism.
Gratitude & Looking Ahead
As the Royals close the 2025 campaign, it's worth acknowledging everyone who contributed: the players who bought in, the coaches who worked tirelessly, support staff, and fans who turned out at home matches. This isn't just the end of a season — it's the beginning of a new chapter.
With a renewed foundation, a growing roster, and national-tournament experience, the Ecclesia College Royals men's soccer program is positioned to build on this year's progress. The future looks bright — and we can't wait to see what comes next.
