Menace returns for 2026 season, debuts new home at Mediacom Stadium
5/6/2026
Tickets: Season memberships start as low as $80, which include a ticket to all eight home matches. Fans can also purchase a Pick 3 Flex Plan, starting at $36. Individual game tickets start at $9; up to $40. For info on tickets, visit www.menacesoccer.com/tickets.
The Des Moines Menace returns for the 2026 soccer season, looking to defend its Great Plains Division title from 2025.
After posting a 10-1-1 record, Charlie Latshaw III returns as head coach. Kyle Davy, Des Moines Menace club manager, is excited for Latshaw’s return.
“Coach Latshaw led one of the most potent offensive attacks in the league,” he said. “He’s looking to do the same in 2026. We’re ready to kick off a new season, building on last year’s success.”
As the player roster is being finalized, Davy is pleased to announce local Des Moines metro players who have signed on for this year’s team.
Iowa native and Ankeny Centennial graduate Ty Duax returns to the Menace for his second season.
Preston Kipnusu, the 2023 Gatorade Player of the Year and West Des Moines Valley High School graduate, joins the Menace for his first season. Kipnusu attends Drake University and is a standout on the Drake men’s soccer team.
Cole Schrage, a three-time state champion with Waukee Northwest High School, joins the 2026 Menace team for his first season. Schrage also attends Drake University and is a standout defender for the Drake men’s soccer team.
Games move to Mediacom Stadium at Drake
This year, the Menace will play all home games at Mediacom Stadium on the Drake University campus. Previously, games were played at Valley Stadium in West Des Moines. The move allows the club to create a live-work-play environment for players, which Davy sees as a competitive advantage.
“Players will live, train and compete on Drake University’s campus, creating major efficiencies for the club,” Davy said. “Mediacom Stadium is regarded as the top soccer venue in the state. Fans can expect an exciting atmosphere with seating close to the action surrounding the field.”
The Menace will host eight regular-season home matches from May 9 through July 11. All matches will be played on Friday or Saturday nights with 7 p.m. kickoff times.
What’s a soccer match without a pregame party? New this year, the Menace will offer official pregame parties outside the stadium.
Parties begin at 6 p.m. before each home match on the plaza outside Mediacom Stadium. Fans can purchase beer, wine, seltzers and nonalcoholic drinks in the Schickler Club. Other activities include a DJ, lawn games and face painting.
Alcohol is not allowed inside Mediacom Stadium and is permitted only on the adjacent plaza.
Fan promotions and giveaways, along with high-level soccer, are reasons the public is invited to experience one of the top clubs in USL League Two.
“With a fresh home in the heart of Des Moines, fans can expect an elevated matchday atmosphere paired with the club’s most dynamic promotional lineup yet,” Davy said. “This season marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter as the Menace officially kicks off its first season at Mediacom Stadium. We look to add a third championship to the club’s history this summer.”
Menace 2026 theme nights and giveaways
Attending a Menace game is more than watching a top-level soccer match; it’s family-friendly fun. From cultural celebrations and community impact nights to giveaways, these traditions deliver a memorable fan experience. Theme nights are presented by Fully Promoted Urbandale.
Giveaways are available for the first 500 fans through the gates starting at 6 p.m., unless otherwise noted. All matches kick off at 7 p.m. at Mediacom Stadium. Visit the Menace promotion schedule for more details.
- May 9 – Latino Heritage Night. Presented by Jarritos, Hola Iowa and Jefas. Celebrate culture, community and the beautiful game as we welcome fans into a new era of Menace soccer. LED rally towel giveaway. Lucha Libre appearance featuring Latin Thunder and Corn Boi. Lucha Libre mask coloring on the concourse.
- May 15 – Opening Night. Presented by Baker Group. The first official regular season match at Mediacom Stadium is hosted on 515 Day the Menace opens the season in their new home. 515 night T-shirt giveaway. $2 hot dogs.
- May 30 – Des Moines Public Schools Night. Presented by Bank of America. A celebration of students, educators and the Des Moines community. The Menace mascot, Maniac, celebrates its birthday with other mascots. Menace water bottle giveaway.
- June 13 – United Against Racism Night. Benefitting BLK & Bold Foundation and By Degrees. Join the Menace for an impactful night as the Menace comes together to stand for equality and inclusion. Menace cowbell giveaway.
- June 20 – Local Soccer Night. Presented by Kick It Forward and Lucky One. A night built for the local soccer community and its Paws at the Pitch, where fans are encouraged to bring their furry friend to the match. Youth, 12 and younger, receive a mini soccer ball. First 100 dogs through the gates receive a Menace collapsible pet bowl.
- June 27 – Pride Night. Presented by Catch Des Moines, Benefitting Capital City Pride. Celebrate inclusivity, community and pride in one of the most vibrant nights of the summer. Pride scarf giveaway.
- July 3 – Stars and Stripes Night. Presented by Coca-Cola and Des Moines Bacon and Meat Company. Celebrate Independence Day weekend with one of the biggest nights of the season. Military and first responder appreciation includes free tickets with ID Menace 16 oz. Koozie giveaway. $2 hot dogs throughout the match.
- July 11 – Kick Cancer Night. Benefitting Unravel Pediatric Cancer Iowa. Help the Menace close out the home slate by honoring local fighters – youth and adult – and raising awareness in their annual Kick Cancer match. “Goals for Good” T-shirt giveaway. ♦
