Head Coach Ian Sarachan has announced that Haato Efune, from Tokyo, Japan, will be joining the men's soccer program for offseason competition in spring 2026. Efune is a transfer from Monroe Community College in Rochester, New York, a program which was nationally ranked and finished 12-1-2 in 2025.
 
Efune made 29 appearances with 25 starts over two seasons at Monroe. The midfielder/defender accumulated nine goals and dished out five assists, helping the program finish undefeated in regular-season competition. He also played club for Flower City Union (UPSL).
 
In Japan, Efune attended Azusa Daiichi High School, helping his team win three Prefectural League championships and finish third in national competition.
 
On choosing Butler: "The BIG EAST is a great conference, and Butler has great facilities and great coaches."

Efune is the son of Tazuru Efune and Kazuhiko Efune and has one sibling, Hina. He plans to major in Creative Media and Entertainment.