Bears Open Preseason Camp, Prep For First Intrasquad Scrimmage

MACON – Mercer men's soccer head coach Brad Ruzzo welcomed more than 25 student-athletes back to campus this week as the Bears opened preseason practice at Betts Stadium.

Eighteen newcomers don the 2025 roster for the Orange & Black who will play the first of two preseason home exhibition contests on Tuesday against Winthrop. Mercer will get its first taste of friendly competition on Saturday evening with an intrasquad scrimmage at Betts Stadium, and will close out the preseason slate on August 16 with an exhibition matchup against the College of Charleston.

Among the returnees for the Bears is senior midfielder Fernando Arteaga who scored a goal against Georgia State last season, while also adding an assist in the late-season matchup with Winthrop. Ruzzo added seven transfers to the 2025 roster, including Bryce Griffith who appeared in 27 matches across two seasons at South Carolina.

A dozen freshmen also adorn the newest version of the Orange & Black as well.

Tuesday's exhibition matchup with Winthrop is scheduled for a 3 p.m. start at Betts Stadium, while Saturday's contest with the College of Charleston has been slated for a 6 p.m. kickoff. Admission to all Mercer soccer matches is free.

Bears Open Preseason Camp, Prep For First Intrasquad Scrimmage

Players Mentioned

Fernando Arteaga

Bryce Griffith

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