As the 2025 season approaches, the Purdue Northwest Men's Soccer team enters year three under head coach Luke Dunn with momentum and a sharpened identity. The squad looks to build on last year’s strides and take another significant step in the competitive GLIAC landscape. With a balanced roster of returning veterans and fresh talent, expectations are steadily rising in Hammond.
A major strength for Purdue Northwest lies in its offensive returners. Former 2023 GLIAC Offensive Player of the Year Hugo Lorenzo returns after just playing two games last year due to injury and looking to make his presence felt once again.
Also returning is dynamic midfielder Rami Hassan Zantout, who contributed 3 goals and 4 assists, often unlocking opposing defenses with creative passing and off-the-ball movement.
Miguel Rodriguez De la Garza brings critical two-way play to the midfield. Both logged over 1,400 minutes last year and serve as reliable engines in transition. Rodriguez’s experience and poise will be instrumental in controlling tempo.
From the backline, Zach Bautista and Michael Miljevic return to help anchor a defense that combines physicality with distribution.
Goalkeeping duties see the return of Mateus Baptista de Souza, who started four matches last year including the two GLIAC Tournament matches. He’ll be pushed by 6-5 sophomore Vittorio Pandini and new addition Mason Meents, a 6-6 transfer from Illinois Springfield, creating a highly competitive battle in net.
The 2025 roster features a promising blend of freshmen and transfers, many of whom will push for immediate minutes. First-year midfielder Sebastian Sousa, standing at 6-4, brings a commanding physical presence and could contribute in both central defense and holding midfield roles. Additionally, Canadian midfielder Carson Byblow and Bolivian attacker Antonio Knize add international flair and technical ability.
Several transfers bolster the squad’s depth and versatility. Brampton native Kion Stewart adds maturity and pace in the middle, while forwards Timothy Jackson and Maqiis Haywood arrive from Crown College and Trinity International, respectively, each bringing goal-scoring pedigree and athleticism.
On the backline, Brandon Young and Sebastian Chavez will help solidify a defense that returns key contributors but looks to improve on last season’s consistency.
With the core of the 2024 team returning and bolstered by a deep, talented recruiting class, Purdue Northwest is well-positioned to challenge for a spot near the top of the GLIAC. Year three under Luke Dunn promises to be a defining season and one where experience meets ambition.
Purdue Northwest begins the 2025 campaign on Thursday, September 4 when they host Lewis on Pepsi Field at Dowling Park kick-off slated for 4:00 PM CT.
