September 24, 2025 – Eastern Illinois is the home of three former NFC players – defender David Amdor, midfielder Jeff Stewardson, and forward Matt Hodges. The Panthers are currently 2-4-0, but improved play has led to a sense of optimism in Charleston. EIU plays Butler Friday and IUP-Fort Wayne Sunday, then opens league play in the Valley next weekend. The Panthers feature All-Conference forward Jimmy Klatter, Valley Player of the Week goalkeeper Mike Sims, and freshman Mick Galeski from Blackburn, England.

Amdor (#14), a sophomore, played on 2002 Region 2 Champion NFC Vincere, and but for a knee injury, would have started in the midfield for 2004 U19 Region Finalist NFC Ozymandias. David has played defender in every minute of EIU’s matches this season and is one of the team’s captains.

Stewardson (#4), also a sophomore, played on the 2004 U19 Region Finalist NFC Ozymandias. Jeff starts at flank for the Panthers.

Hodges (#22) is a junior transfer from IUPUI, starts at forward and is second in shots for the Panthers. Matt played for NFC’s U23 men’s team in 2004.