Juma, Kawagoe Ink With Winthrop

Men’s soccer standouts Villads Juma and Shota Kawagoe have both signed to continue their careers at Winthrop University.

A graphic celebrates ICC men’s soccer players Shota Kawagoe and Villads Juma signing with Winthrop. The design features both players in red Itawamba uniforms with arms crossed, large “Winthrop signees” text and ICC, Nike and Renasant Bank logos at the bottom.
Itawamba Community College men’s soccer standouts Villads Juma and Shota Kawagoe have both signed to continue their careers at Winthrop University.
May 28, 2026

FULTON, Miss. – Men's soccer standouts Villads Juma and Shota Kawagoe have both signed to continue their careers at Winthrop University.

Juma starred in his freshman season, leading the Indians with 20 goals and 10 assists for 50 points. His 20 goals were the second-highest single-season total in program history, behind only David Schumaker's 24-goal season in 2007. Juma earned MACCC Player of the Year honors along with All-MACCC First Team, NJCAA All-Region 23 and NJCAA Division II Second Team All-American recognition.

Kawagoe made an immediate impact during his freshman season, appearing in 17 matches while recording four assists from the midfield position. He helped fuel ICC's attack throughout the year with his playmaking ability and versatility.

Juma and Kawagoe join the Eagles men's soccer program, which competes in the Big South Conference and is a member of NCAA Division I.