As the fall semester begins at Talladega College, there's a buzz in the air — and it's all about soccer. Both the men's and women's teams are ready to take the field with a renewed sense of purpose, looking to build on last year's successes and push their programs to new heights. Under the leadership of Coach Junior Noel, who's been a driving force for both teams, the Tornadoes are determined to make their mark in the 2025 season.
The wait is almost over! The men's team kicks off the action on Monday, August 25, when they face Point University at 4:30 p.m. on the soccer field. The women's team takes their turn just a few days later on Thursday, August 28, with a 4:30 p.m. showdown against Auburn University of Montgomery.
For the men's team, last season was one for the history books. It was the first time ever that Talladega's men's soccer team made it to the postseason, and the Tornadoes didn't just make an appearance — they made it to the semifinals of the Continental Athletic Conference tournament, securing their first postseason win along the way. With a 4-6-4 record and a national ranking of 87th in RPI, the team proved they could hang with the best.
Coach Noel and his squad aren't content with just making history. They're back with an even stronger, more determined roster, ready to take the next step. Saeed Pompey Charles, the team's powerhouse striker, and Malachai Daniel, a versatile midfielder/striker, return as the core of the attack. But that's not all — Joel "Pumba" Wilson will continue to lead the defense, bringing stability and grit to the backline. And then there are the newcomers: Jared Smeins, a freshman striker who already has international experience with Anguilla's senior team, and Dujon Brown, a dynamic Jamaican midfielder who's ready to shake things up.
"I'm really excited about this group," says Coach Noel. "There's fierce competition for places, and that's what makes this team so strong. Everyone is pushing each other to be better, and that's exactly what we need to build a program that earns respect every time we step on the field."
On the women's side, the Lady Tornadoes are equally determined. After finishing last season with a 5-7-2 record and advancing to the Continental Athletic Conference semifinals, the team is on the rise. Their third-place finish in the conference and Top 80 national ranking in RPI proved they're a force to be reckoned with.
Key players like Annalisa Vincent, a forward known for her lightning-fast moves and lethal finishing, Reba Stott, a tough-as-nails defender, and Gabrielle Bryan, who brings versatility in both defense and midfield, are back to lead the charge. Up front, Cycoiah Wattley will bring her speed and flair to the attack, ready to put on a show for fans.
And let's not forget the newcomers who are eager to make an impact. Amelia Tiggs, a transfer from NCAA DII, is set to bring her experience and skill to the midfield/forward positions. The Pensacola twins, Makayla and Jakayla Stutts, are adding energy and creativity to the team, making their mark in both attack and midfield.
Coach Noel, now in his third season coaching both teams, has seen the program evolve and grow. With over 27 years of coaching experience, he knows what it takes to build a successful program, and he's excited to see what this year holds.
"Talladega has given me the freedom to coach in a way that's authentic to who I am," Coach Noel says. "It's about more than just winning games. It's about helping these young women and men grow, both on and off the field. We know that we have to earn everything — nothing is handed to us — and that's the mentality we carry into every match."
As the season opener quickly approaches, both teams are primed and ready to give their best. With a blend of seasoned veterans and hungry newcomers, Talladega soccer is poised for another thrilling season.
Mark your calendars and get ready for some action-packed soccer! The men's team opens the season on Monday, August 25 against Point University, and the women's team takes the field Thursday, August 28 against Auburn University of Montgomery. It's shaping up to be an exciting season, and you won't want to miss a minute of it.
