The Kentucky Men’s Soccer team won’t get the luxury of easing into its new season. Instead, the Wildcats open on the road Thursday in Kalamazoo against No. 20 Western Michigan, a program with national pedigree. For Kentucky, this isn’t just another match—it’s redemption and a chance to set a new tone after a frustrating 2024 season that saw the Cats finish with just six wins.
For context, Kentucky competes in the Sun Belt Conference, since the SEC does not sponsor men’s soccer. Last fall ended with a painful second-round exit to West Virginia, leaving a sour taste the team has carried all offseason.