Three Spartans Named Midseason Players to Watch
9/17/2026 11:10:00 AM | Men's Soccer
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – USC Upstate men's soccer saw three Spartans earn recognition from the Big South Conference as Josh Zawlocki, Christian Cook and Jalen Moore were named Big South Midseason Players to Watch.
The trio has played a significant role for the Spartans through the first eight matches of the 2026 season, with Zawlocki and Cook helping lead the Upstate attack and Moore making contributions from the back line.
Zawlocki has been one of Upstate's top attacking threats during his sophomore campaign, tying for the team lead with three goals and six points through eight appearances. The Fort Mill, S.C. native has taken nine shots, placing four on goal, while also recording one game-winning goal. Zawlocki put together an impressive three-match scoring streak earlier this season, finding the back of the net against West Florida, ETSU and UAB. He scored the game winner in Upstate's 3-0 road victory over ETSU.
Cook has matched Zawlocki atop the Spartan scoring column with three goals and six points across eight appearances. The graduate midfielder has been efficient with his opportunities, scoring three times on just seven shots while putting four attempts on target. Like Zawlocki, Cook scored in three consecutive matches against West Florida, ETSU and UAB. His goal against West Florida proved to be the game winner in Upstate's 3-0 victory at County University Soccer Stadium.
Moore has provided a presence on the back line while also contributing to the Upstate attack. The junior defender has recorded two assists on the season, tying for the team lead, with both helpers coming on goals scored by Zawlocki. Moore picked up his first assist of the year in Upstate's 3-0 victory over West Florida before adding another against UAB. He has also helped the Spartans record a pair of clean sheets, with Upstate posting back-to-back 3-0 shutouts over West Florida and ETSU.
Together, Zawlocki and Cook have accounted for six of Upstate's 13 goals this season, while Moore's two assists are tied for the team lead. Zawlocki and Cook also enter the next portion of the schedule tied for the team lead in points, giving the Spartans a pair of consistent scoring threats as Big South Conference play approaches.
Connect with the Spartans    Â
Facebook.com/UpstateAthletics      Â
X (Twitter) | @UpstateMSoccer      Â
Instagram | @Upstatemenssoccer      Â
Youtube.com/UpstateSpartans     Â
INVEST IN CHAMPIONS - Join the Upstate Athletic Fund (UAF) and enjoy enhanced benefits for your support of all USC Upstate programs! Make your gift today, click here!
