The 2026 season marks a significant chapter for Pace University’s men’s soccer team, with senior Daniel Santos and redshirt sophomore Acland Zhang stepping into leadership roles as captains. Their journeys to Pace, though different, converge in a shared commitment to building a cohesive and competitive team.
As the Setters prepare to take the field, Santos and Zhang are not just leading on the pitch; they are shaping the team’s identity, fostering camaraderie, and setting examples both on and off the field.
From Melbourne to Pleasantville: Acland Zhang’s Journey
Acland Zhang’s path to Pace University began in Melbourne, Australia. Drawn to the opportunity to compete at a high level while pursuing a strong academic program, Zhang chose Pace for its proximity to New York City and its robust psychology curriculum. With aspirations to pursue a career in neuroscience, Zhang sees Pace as a place to grow both academically and athletically.
Being part of a new men’s soccer team has given Zhang the unique opportunity to help shape something from the ground up. Now, as a captain, he is focused on ensuring every player feels valued and integral to the team’s success. “Bringing a team together starts with ensuring everybody feels valued regardless of their year, position, or role in the team,” Zhang said.
Zhang’s leadership style is rooted in the values instilled by his parents and sister back home. Being far from his family has strengthened his appreciation for their work ethic, resilience, and support—qualities he aims to embody in his role as captain. For Zhang, leadership is also about the unnoticed efforts that make a difference. “Soccer has taught me that how you do the little things is how you do everything,” he noted.
Daniel Santos: A Local Leader with Global Inspiration
Daniel Santos’ journey to Pace began much closer to home, in New Rochelle, N.Y. Born in Portugal, Santos chose Pace for the opportunity to continue playing soccer at the Division II level while pursuing his passion for finance and sports marketing. As a finance major with a minor in sports marketing, Santos hopes to build a career that merges his interests in business and sports.
On the field, Santos has grown into a player trusted to lead the Setters. He views the captain’s armband as a symbol of trust and responsibility, reflecting his commitment to leading by example and putting the team first. “It’s a symbol of trust from my coaches and teammates that I’ll lead by example, hold people accountable, and put the team first even when it’s hard,” Santos said.
Santos plans to lead through communication and consistency, fostering stronger relationships throughout the roster. He believes the trust built off the field will translate into the team’s performance on the field. “The relationships and trust we create off the field will carry into how we play and battle for each other,” he explained.
Looking up to players like Cristiano Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes, Santos has learned that hard work and consistency matter more than raw talent. This mindset connects him with Zhang, as both captains understand that leadership extends far beyond wearing an armband.
A Shared Vision for the Setters
Whether pushing teammates on the field, building relationships off it, or setting examples through their daily habits, Santos and Zhang share a vision for the Setters. Their leadership is about more than tactics; it’s about creating an environment where every player feels valued and motivated to give their best.
As the 2026 season unfolds, the impact of Santos and Zhang’s leadership will be measured not just in wins and losses, but in the unity and growth of the team. Their distinct backgrounds and shared values are shaping a team identity that promises to leave a lasting mark on Pace University’s men’s soccer program.
For all information regarding Pace Athletics, log on to and follow Pace Athletics on Facebook (T-Bone, Official Mascot of Pace University Athletics), Twitter/X (@PaceUAthletics), Instagram (@PaceAthletics), and TikTok (@paceuathletics). In addition, the Official Pace University Athletics newsletter, Setters Sports Wrap, is available. CLICK HERE to sign up for weekly updates on Pace Athletics content.
