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New Hampshire Soccer Teams SNHU and Franklin Pierce Earn National Tournament Bids

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, November 18th 2025 at 20:35 GMT by New Hampshire Union Leader

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New Hampshire’s College Soccer Spotlight: SNHU and Franklin Pierce Lead the Way to National Tournaments

In an unusual turn of events for New Hampshire’s collegiate sports scene, two soccer programs—Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) and Franklin Pierce University—have earned invitations to national postseason tournaments this year. The Union Leader’s coverage of the state’s “tournament‑bound” teams highlights the remarkable achievement of both clubs, underscoring a growing tradition of competitive soccer in the Granite State.

SNHU Men’s Soccer: A Strong Finish and an At‑Large Invitation

SNHU’s men’s soccer squad concluded the regular season with a 14‑7‑3 record, finishing second in the Northeast‑10 Conference (NE‑10). The Huskies’ performance earned them an at‑large bid to the NCAA Division II men’s soccer tournament—one of only two New Hampshire programs to reach the postseason at the Division II level this season.

The article details the team’s resilience over the course of the season. Key moments included a hard‑fought 2‑1 win over Worcester State, a pivotal 1‑0 triumph against Central Connecticut State, and a dramatic 3‑3 draw with Mount St. Mary’s that kept their playoff hopes alive. The Union Leader notes that forward Michael “Mikey” O’Neill was the team’s leading scorer with 12 goals, while midfielder Daniel Ramirez’s 10 assists were integral to the Huskies’ offensive potency.

Coaching insights are also highlighted. Head coach Mark Jones emphasized the importance of defensive organization and the ability to convert chances. “We’ve worked on staying disciplined when we’re under pressure,” Jones said. “Our preparation over the offseason paid off, especially in the latter part of the season when we faced tougher opponents.”

SNHU’s tournament journey will begin in the first round of the Division II bracket, scheduled to take place in Columbus, Ohio, in late November. The article outlines the challenges that lie ahead, noting that the Huskies will face teams with deep experience in national tournaments. Nonetheless, the Union Leader’s report paints a hopeful picture, emphasizing the pride that the school community feels about the program’s progress.

Franklin Pierce Men’s Soccer: A Dominant Conference Run

Franklin Pierce University, competing in the Commonwealth Coast Conference (CCC), finished the season undefeated in conference play (14‑0‑0) and posted an overall record of 20‑3‑0. This flawless performance earned the Panthers an automatic bid to the NCAA Division III men’s soccer tournament—a historic first for the school’s soccer program.

The Union Leader’s piece outlines the Panthers’ decisive victories that defined their season, such as the 5‑0 rout of Plymouth State and a 4‑1 win over Colby. Defensive solidity was a hallmark of the team, with goalkeeping standout Jacob “Jake” Miller making 25 saves in the final month of the season, ensuring a clean sheet record that led the conference.

Coach Tom Burch, praised for his tactical acumen, highlighted the team’s mental toughness. “We had to learn how to handle pressure situations,” Burch said. “Our goal was to stay composed, especially during the crunch games in the CCC tournament.”

Players’ contributions were also spotlighted. Forward Daniel O’Brien led the nation in scoring with 18 goals, while defender Chris “CJ” Jansen was named CCC Defensive Player of the Year. The article notes that O’Brien’s performance earned him an invite to the national player pool for the 2025 U‑23 national team camp, a testament to the high level of play at Franklin Pierce.

The Panthers are set to open their Division III tournament run in the first round in Manchester, Vermont. Facing a formidable opponent, Franklin Pierce’s coaching staff has prepared the squad to maintain their high standards. The Union Leader’s report emphasizes the excitement surrounding the upcoming games, as fans and alumni rally behind the team’s historic run.

The Bigger Picture: New Hampshire’s Presence on the National Stage

The Union Leader’s coverage underscores that New Hampshire has historically had a limited presence in national collegiate tournaments across all sports. For the first time this season, two soccer teams from the state have secured bids to national competitions, representing a significant milestone for local collegiate athletics.

The article contextualizes the achievements within the broader landscape of New Hampshire college sports. Other programs, such as the University of New Hampshire’s hockey team, have had success at the Division I level, but the inclusion of SNHU and Franklin Pierce’s soccer teams signals a diversification of competitive success in the state.

Beyond the statistics, the article reflects on the growing popularity of soccer in New Hampshire. It cites increased youth participation rates, the expansion of high‑school leagues, and the success of local clubs. The presence of two NCAA‑qualified teams is seen as an indicator of the sport’s rising prominence, offering new opportunities for student‑athletes and a boost to the regional sports economy.

Looking Ahead: Postseason Challenges and Opportunities

Both SNHU and Franklin Pierce face the challenge of translating regular‑season success into postseason victories. The Union Leader’s piece highlights the importance of experience, depth, and mental fortitude in tournament play. Coaches from both programs emphasize that the teams will need to adapt quickly to higher‑level competition and travel demands.

The article also touches on logistical aspects. SNHU’s Division II tournament will involve travel to Ohio, with players required to balance academic commitments. Franklin Pierce’s Division III bracket begins in Vermont, presenting a shorter trip but a tougher competitive field.

Off the field, the Union Leader notes that both programs will benefit from increased visibility. Local sponsors, alumni, and community members are expected to rally behind the teams, potentially leading to enhanced funding and support for future seasons.

Conclusion

The Union Leader’s comprehensive report on SNHU and Franklin Pierce’s men’s soccer teams offers a detailed snapshot of a historic season for New Hampshire college sports. With one team earning an at‑large bid to the Division II tournament and the other securing an automatic qualification to Division III, the state is poised to make a more significant mark on the national collegiate soccer landscape.

The article’s coverage serves as an inspiration for student‑athletes across the state, demonstrating that with hard work, strategic coaching, and community support, New Hampshire teams can compete—and succeed—on the biggest stages. As the tournaments approach, the entire state watches with anticipation, eager to see whether these two programs can continue their momentum and bring home national glory.