2025 Men’s Soccer Schedule Release: Building on a Championship Legacy

By: Spencer Mathis

Director of Media & Communications

YOUNG HARRIS, Ga. | The Young Harris College men's soccer team has officially released its 2025 schedule, and expectations are sky-high as the Mountain Lions look to build on a dominant run that includes two consecutive Conference Carolinas Southwest Division titles. With veterans returning, a talented group of newcomers, and a passionate fan base behind them, the stage is set for another memorable season in the Enchanted Valley. 

Head coach Dean Grey enters the new campaign with a clear sense of purpose. "The anticipation and excitement is really building towards an exciting season," said Grey. "We have a competitive schedule within the conference and region, which should promote a great season of soccer for all. I cannot wait to get the lads back on campus and get busy." 

The Mountain Lions begin their journey with three preseason scrimmages in August, taking place on the 19th, 23rd, and 29th. The regular season officially kicks off on Sunday, September 7th at 1:00 p.m. when Young Harris hosts Coker University for Youth Day at the YHC Soccer and Lacrosse Field. The action continues just three days later with a midweek rivalry showdown against North Georgia on Wednesday, September 10th at 7:00 p.m. as part of the #PACKTheDen Fan Appreciation Day. 

Conference play begins on Saturday, September 13th at 3:00 p.m. when the Mountain Lions welcome Lees-McRae for the Conference Carolinas opener and Purple Out promotion. The team then hits the road for their first Roar War rivalry matchup against Emmanuel University on September 17th at 7:00 p.m. in Franklin Springs. Young Harris returns home for back-to-back matches against Chowan University on September 20th (Youth Day) at 1:30 p.m. and Southern Wesleyan on September 23rd at 7:30 p.m. for International Day. 

Three of the next four matches will be on the road, including visits to Belmont Abbey, Francis Marion, and Lenoir-Rhyne. The lone home match during that stretch is a pivotal Roar War clash on Wednesday, October 1st at 7:00 p.m. The Mountain Lions then host Erskine College on Saturday, October 11th at 3:30 p.m. for Cancer Awareness Night. 

The regular season concludes with a balanced mix of home and away contests. Young Harris travels to face Shorter, Southern Wesleyan, and Erskine, while hosting Mars Hill on Tuesday, October 21st for Community Heroes Night, Converse University on Saturday, October 25th for Men's & Women's Soccer Alumni Day, and Shorter University again on Saturday, November 1st for Senior Day. 

Coach Grey is particularly enthusiastic about the incoming class of players. "The expectation on this incoming group is very high," he said. "We have a lot of great talent and the potential competitiveness of this group is very exciting for this upcoming Fall." He also highlighted the return of a familiar face in a new role. "Absolutely delighted to bring Charlie Wilde aboard this Fall," Grey said. "He was one of my captains and leaders as a player and greatly respected on and off the field. His knowledge of the game, the program and passion for YHC will only benefit us moving forward." 

The goals for the 2025 season remain ambitious. "Our focus is always to reach our potential as a team," Grey said. "Our goals are and will always be to compete for championships. We want to compete within the conference, regionally and nationally." While Grey is excited about individual talent, his focus remains on the collective. "There are many players I'm excited to see this Fall, returners and incomers," he said. "But what I'm most excited about is the unit as a whole. What each individual can bring to this team holds a lot of excitement and anticipation for the upcoming season." 

Midfielder Thomas Kleinpenning, who scored a game-winner in the 2024 postseason, is entering his final season with high aspirations. "This year, we want to win everything," Kleinpenning said. "The goal is to go to Nationals. I want to be better than last year, make the All-Conference First Team again, All-Region, and ultimately become an All-American." He also praised the team's unique culture. "We had 18 different nationalities last season. It's a super cultural team, but also really close. Everyone has fun on and off the field." 

With a championship pedigree, a common goal in the locker room, and a hunger to return to the national stage, the 2025 Young Harris College men's soccer team is ready to make this season one to remember. As Kleinpenning put it best, "I can't wait to start the season and show our fans what we're capable of."