BIRMINGHAM, ALA. – The Delta State University Men's Soccer team will enter the 2024 season picked eighth in the Gulf South Conference's preseason coaches' poll released this morning by the conference office.
 
The Statesmen were held an 8-8-3 overall record in 2023 as they finished the 2023 campaign on a strong note by making an appearance in the Gulf South Conference Tournament Championship as the eight seed.
 
Head Coach Austin Jackman returns seven players from the 2023 season that has started in 10 or more contests. Key returners include two all-Gulf South Tournament players in Malo Clement and Zach Sorey.
 
Clement will be a part of an experienced defensive back line including Brandon Rogers and Santiago Rossi. That defensive trio logged the most minutes for the Statesmen in the 2023 campaign.
 
The Statesmen mid field will return experience with Braden Taylor and Will Ballenger for the 2023 season.
 
The Statesmen kick off their 2024 season at Delta Field as they will host the Hilltoppers of St. Edward's University on Thursday (Sept. 5) at 4:00 p.m.
 
2024 GSC Men's Soccer Coaches Preseason Poll First-place votes in parentheses ( )
1. West Florida (9) – 117 points
2. Mississippi College (3) – 113 points
3. West Alabama – 89 points
4. Auburn Montgomery – 88 points
t5. Christian Brothers – 80 points
t5. Lee – 80 points
 7. Alabama Huntsville – 63 points
 8. Delta State – 49 points
 9. Montevallo – 40 points
 10. Spring Hill – 29 points
 11. Trevecca Nazarene – 27 points
 12. Union – 17 points