{
  "id": 13075527,
  "title": "Midwestern State soccer leans on standards, not rankings, in title defense",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/09/midwestern-state-soccer-leans-on-standards-not-rankings-in-title",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-09T09:03:25.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/midwestern-state-soccer-leans-standards-090325523.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Midwestern State University's soccer team, the Mustangs, are currently defending their national championship title after an undefeated season. Ranked No. 2 in the NCAA Division II standings, the team has won 24 matches in a row with a 4-1 victory over Dallas Baptist recently. Head coach Michael Meachum emphasizes that despite their success, the team's focus remains on their internal standards rather than external expectations. Meachum explains that the Mustangs have defined their standards to distinguish them from external expectations and player goals. The team's success has not changed their approach to training, recruiting, or preparation. Instead, they view the season as four separate seasons: preseason, nonconference schedule, conference play, and potential postseason. Meachum acknowledges that while the team is experienced, they are focusing on maturity, particularly on defense, as they aim to continue building upon their success.",
  "summary": "Defending national champion Midwestern State is 10-0-3, but coach Michael Meachum is keeping the focus on standards.",
  "key_points": [
    "Midwestern State University's Mustangs defend national championship title.",
    "Team focuses on internal standards, not rankings.",
    "Head coach Michael Meachum emphasizes maturity, particularly in defense."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}