YOUNG HARRIS, Ga. | The Mountain Lions men's soccer team has been selected to finish third in the 2025 Conference Carolinas Men's Soccer Preseason Poll. The Mountain Lions earned three first-place votes and 174 points, placing them just behind defending champion Francis Marion and 2024 runner-up Chowan University. 

This marks the second consecutive year Young Harris has been projected to finish third in the conference. Last season, the Mountain Lions played up to their expectations by capturing their second straight Southwest Division title and going unbeaten in 21 of their last 22 regular season conference matches across two years. They finished 8-1-2 in conference play and ranked fifth in KPI. The three players to watch this season for Young Harris Men's Soccer are Thomas Kleinpenning, Leho Le Louarn, and Filip Zander.

Head coach Dean Grey reflected on the team's recent success and the goals ahead. 

"Two division titles and one defeat in 21 regular season conference games is something the team has earned and can be proud of," said Grey. "But our conversations for the future are not just to retain the division title, but also to push further to a conference tournament title and back to a national tournament run." 

The 2024 postseason featured thrilling home victories, including a standout performance in the quarterfinals against Belmont Abbey. Midfielder Thomas Kleinpenning, who scored the game-winner in the first round against Lees-McRae, described the atmosphere. 

"When we found out we would play at home again, it gave me even more motivation. I remember it was raining hard in the first half, and I thought people would leave, but they didn't. That's when I realized how special our Young Harris College community is." 

Kleinpenning was named to the 2024 All-Conference Carolinas First Team, one of six Mountain Lions to earn All-Conference honors. Kleinpenning, who will graduate early after the 2025 season, has set his sights on national recognition. 

"This year, we want to win everything. The goal is to go to Nationals. I want to be better than last year, make the All-Conference First Team again, All-Region, and ultimately become an All-American." 

The statements from coaches and players leading into their 2025 campaign reflect the team's championship ambitions. Young Harris opens the season hosting Coker University at 1 p.m. on September 7th for Youth Day. Key matchups include a rivalry game against North Georgia on September 10 for #PACKTheDen Fan Appreciation Day and the Conference Carolinas opener against Lees-McRae on September 13 for Purple Out. 

Coach Grey is excited about the incoming class and the return of former captain Charlie Wilde in a coaching role. 

"Absolutely delighted to bring Charlie Wilde aboard this Fall. He was one of my captains and leaders as a player and greatly respected on and off the field. His knowledge of the game, the program and passion for YHC will only benefit us moving forward." 

Grey emphasized the importance of team unity and collective goals. 

"Our focus is always to reach our potential as a team. Our goals are and will always be to compete for championships. We want to compete within the conference, regionally and nationally." 

As the 2025 regular season rapidly approaches, Young Harris College is poised for another deep run. The Mountain Lions are relentless in their pursuit of a Conference Carolinas Championship Title.