Columbia, S.C. — November 13, 2025 — The Carolina University Men's Soccer team turns its attention to postseason play as it travels to Columbia International University for the NCCAA South Region Tournament. The Bruins, ranked #9 in the latest NCCAA National Poll, enter as the No. 1 seed in the region and will face the host and No. 2 seed Columbia International University (5-8-1) on Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m.
This matchup marks the latest chapter in a familiar rivalry between the two South Region programs. Earlier this season, Carolina earned a 2–0 road victory over CIU behind goals from senior forward Will McCamley and defender Lewis Jacklin, while goalkeeper Joshua Wilson recorded a clean sheet.
Carolina enters the regional tournament at 8–5–2 overall, coming off a narrow 2–1 loss to NAIA No. 12 Georgia Gwinnett in the CAC Tournament semifinals. The Bruins have shown balance and resilience throughout the year, outscoring opponents 26–20 while producing a 1.86 goals-per-game average. McCamley leads the attack with nine goals and four assists, followed by Jacklin with eight goals and one assist, giving Carolina one of the most potent senior duos in the NCCAA South Region.
On the other side, CIU has battled through an up-and-down campaign but has shown flashes of strong play, led by forward Josue Pirela, who tops the Rams with five goals, and midfielder Ive Celic, who has tallied a team-high four assists.
Head Coach Craig Golding emphasized the team's mindset going into postseason play:
"This group has been tested all year, and they've shown tremendous character," Golding said. "We know what's at stake. Every player understands the level of focus and discipline it takes to advance, and we're ready to compete for another trip to nationals."
The winner of Thursday's match will advance to the NCCAA National Tournament, where Carolina aims to replicate last year's memorable run to the National Championship game.