LAKELAND, Fla. -- The wait is over. SEU Men's Soccer kicks off its 2025 season with a pair of early road challenges that promise to test the Fire's depth, cohesion, and competitive edge right out of the gate.
On Saturday, SEU travels to Spartanburg, S.C., to face Spartanburg Methodist in a 4 p.m. matchup. Just two days later, the Fire head north to Montreat, N.C., squaring off against Montreat on Monday at 3 p.m.
Both contests will feature live video streaming and real-time stats to keep fans connected. Please note: the Spartanburg Methodist stream will require a viewing fee, while Montreat's broadcast will be free to access.
Fresh off a championship run in 2024 that saw Southeastern capture the Sun Conference Tournament title and earn a berth in the NAIA Opening Round, the Fire return to the pitch in 2025 with high expectations—and a new chapter to write.
The season begins under interim Head Coach
Gerritson Craane, following the offseason departure of longtime head coach Clay Roberts, whose leadership helped shape SEU into a perennial contender. With 18 returning players who saw game action last fall and 15 talented newcomers joining the roster, the Fire blend experience with fresh energy as they look to build on last year's momentum.
Leading the returners offensively is forward
Arthur Bello, whose three-goal tally came in just 549 minutes of action. With a 15.8 shot percentage and a knack for finding space, Bello offers a dynamic edge in the attacking third. Alongside him,
Fabio De Paula proved efficient and creative, contributing two goals and two assists while posting a .571 shot-on-goal percentage. Expect both to be central figures in SEU's forward press.
Elia Michelotti and
Guilherme Viserta return as steady midfield presences, each contributing two assists and showing flashes of vision in transition play. Their ability to link lines and maintain tempo will be crucial as SEU looks to control possession more effectively this season.
Anchoring the back line is
Edward Alderson, who led the returners in minutes (999) and started all 12 matches he played. His consistency and composure under pressure make him a central piece of SEU's defensive identity.
Sebastian Riebartsch and
Pietro Bronzin also logged significant minutes and will be counted on to fortify the team's shape and discipline.
Saturday's match marks the first-ever meeting between SEU and Spartanburg Methodist College, offering a fresh opportunity to establish a new rivalry.
Monday's contest, however, continues a familiar storyline. SEU holds a perfect 4–0 record against Montreat College, with each win showcasing a different chapter of dominance. SEU has outscored Montreat 8-2 across the series, with clutch performances and late-game resilience defining the rivalry.
