UC Davis men’s soccer kicks off its 2026 season with two exhibition matches against Cal on Thursday at 7 p.m. and Chico State on Sunday at 5 p.m. These games are essential for showcasing the team ahead of its inaugural season in the Mountain West Conference. Head coach Dwayne Shaffer, entering his 30th season, aims to build on the team’s competitive performance which saw them reach the Big West Tournament semifinal last year. A notable aspect of the exhibitions is the inclusion of three players on the Mountain West Watch List, highlighting their potential impact this season.

By the Numbers
  • UC Davis averaged 15.3 shots per match last season, ranking 21st nationally.
  • Head coach Dwayne Shaffer has 269 career NCAA victories, placing him 17th among active Division I men’s soccer coaches.
State of Play
  • UC Davis has transitioned to the Mountain West Conference and was picked third in the preseason coaches' poll.
  • Three players from UC Davis have secured spots on the Mountain West Men's Soccer Watch List.
What's Next

Following the exhibitions, UC Davis will open its regular season against Sacramento State on August 20 and host Cal Poly on August 23. These matches will be pivotal as the Aggies seek to establish themselves in the new conference setting.

Bottom Line

With a seasoned coach and a promising roster, UC Davis men's soccer is positioned for a competitive start as they transition into the Mountain West Conference, making these exhibitions key for momentum heading into the regular season.