The 2026 collegiate soccer season continued throughout the week of August 24–30, with SIMA alumni making their presence felt across the country. From important contributions in nationally ranked matchups to offensive production and appearances across multiple programs, several former SIMA players stood out during the week's action.
Baafi Continues Strong Start at High Point
Alfred Baafi (High Point, SIMA Class of 2023) continued his impressive start to the 2026 season in High Point's matchup against Virginia on August 24.
Baafi recorded an assist in the Panthers' 3-2 victory over Virginia, contributing to a win over a nationally ranked opponent. The assist gave Baafi three assists through High Point's first two games of the season.
Baafi also started for High Point against Maryland on August 29 as the Panthers faced another nationally ranked opponent. Maryland ultimately earned a 1-0 victory.
Affanyi Plays 90 Minutes in Maryland Victory
Franklin Affanyi (Maryland, SIMA Class of 2026) played all 90 minutes in Maryland's 1-0 victory over High Point on August 29.
Affanyi started along the Maryland backline as the Terrapins earned the shutout against the No. 9 Panthers. The victory gave Maryland another strong early-season result against a nationally ranked opponent.
Gyamfi Remains Active in UNCW Attack
Osei Gyamfi (UNC Wilmington, SIMA Class of 2024) continued to be an important part of the Seahawks' attack throughout the week.
Across UNCW's two matches against Mercer and Furman, Gyamfi recorded eight total shots, including two shots on goal against Furman on August 30.
Gyamfi played all 90 minutes against Furman as UNCW and the Paladins finished in a 0-0 draw.
Five SIMA Alumni Take the Field for VCU
The VCU Rams featured a strong SIMA connection during their August 28 matchup against North Carolina, with five former SIMA players seeing action in the match.
Jordan Cheetham (SIMA Class of 2025) started at center back and played the full 90 minutes. David Leavey (SIMA Class of 2025) also started, while Bya Ndimubandi (SIMA Class of 2026), Parker Simkins (SIMA Class of 2025) and Mohammed Ibrahim (SIMA Class of 2024) each saw action off the bench.
VCU ultimately fell 1-0 to North Carolina in a closely contested match.
Franco Contributes for Purdue Northwest
Gianluca Franco (Purdue Northwest, SIMA Class of 2024) contributed offensively during Purdue Northwest's August 27 matchup against Lewis.
Franco recorded two shots as the Pride earned a 1-0 victory.
Siegel Sees Action for Furman
Wesley Siegel (Furman, SIMA Class of 2024) saw action in Furman's August 30 matchup against UNC Wilmington.
Siegel played 21 minutes as Furman and UNCW battled to a scoreless draw.
Looking Ahead
With the 2026 collegiate season continuing to unfold, SIMA alumni are already making their presence felt at programs across the country.
As the season progresses, SIMA will continue to follow the performances of its alumni and highlight notable goals, assists, appearances and accomplishments throughout the 2026 campaign.
Check back next week for the latest SIMA College Alumni Weekly Recap.
About the Soccer Institute at Montverde Academy (SIMA)
The Soccer Institute at Montverde Academy (SIMA) is a nationally recognized residential soccer academy that combines elite player development with a college-preparatory education. Located on the campus of Montverde Academy in Central Florida, SIMA provides student-athletes from around the world with world-class coaching, high-level competition, and an environment designed to maximize their growth on the field, in the classroom, and as leaders beyond the game. Through its commitment to excellence, SIMA prepares players for collegiate, professional, and international opportunities.
###
