CLINTON, Miss. — Mississippi Christian University men's soccer has opened fall camp with the same standard that helped fuel one of the most successful seasons in program history — work hard, build strong relationships and establish a team-first culture.

For senior Gage Sorey and Alvaro Pena, the early days of preseason have already provided plenty of optimism about what the 2026 season could hold.

With a mix of returning players and newcomers, the Choctaws have quickly begun building chemistry on and off the field. Sorey said the group has given him confidence heading into the new season.

"I'm pretty confident about us this year," Sorey said. "I feel we're going to be pretty good. We have a lot of great guys coming in, and they'll be pretty good this year."

Pena echoed that excitement, pointing to the quality of the newcomers and the overall makeup of the team.

"I think we've got really good newcomers," Pena said. "They're really nice. We have a really nice group, and I think we can reach our goal this season."

Building that chemistry early has become a priority for a program that found its stride last season and went on one of the most successful runs in Mississippi Christian men's soccer history.

The Choctaws' approach this preseason has been simple: spend time together, compete together and continue developing the culture that helped bring the team together a year ago.

"I think just be a group," Pena said. "Just hang out with the boys and, I don't know, just every practice, give everything. That's what I think — just be in this group."

Sorey said head coach Rafael Costa has consistently emphasized the importance of building a strong locker room, something the team believes will be critical as it works toward another successful season.

"One thing (Coach) Rafa is always harping on is to have a good locker room," Sorey said. "That'll help us go on through the season. If we work hard during practice, then it translates in the games. I believe that's probably one of the biggest things."

That emphasis on the locker room has also taken on greater importance as the Choctaws enter the season with an experienced group of players ready to take on increased leadership roles.

For Sorey, leadership begins with setting the standard every day.

"Just being a strong presence in the locker room, making sure everyone's doing the right thing, no one's slacking off in practice," Sorey said. "I think it all comes from there."

Pena has taken a similar approach, focusing on helping the younger players adjust to the college game and become comfortable within the team.

"I think just be a great example for the new guys, also for the freshmen mainly," Pena said. "Just try to help them in anything they need."

That veteran presence could prove important as Mississippi Christian continues through preseason training. With new players joining an established core, the Choctaws are working to create the same connected environment that helped define last season's run — only earlier.

For Sorey and Pena, the formula is straightforward: establish the culture in the locker room, bring intensity to every practice and make sure every player understands his role.

With fall camp underway, the Choctaws are focused on building the foundation for another successful season — one that begins with chemistry and leadership long before the first whistle.