In 2026, the West Virginia University women’s soccer program will celebrate a 30‑year anniversary, marking three decades since the team first competed in the NCAA ranks.
Foundations of a Program
The squad officially began play in 1996 under the guidance of Nikki Izzo‑Brown, who remains the only head coach in program history. From the outset, Izzo‑Brown has shaped the team’s identity, guiding 45 athletes to professional contracts and establishing a culture of sustained excellence.
During her tenure, the Mountaineers have captured ten regular‑season titles and eight tournament championships, compiling a 416‑146‑80 record. The team’s résumé includes a 2016 College Cup appearance where they finished as national runners‑up, and they have qualified for the NCAA Tournament in 24 of the past 26 seasons.
A Legacy of Leadership
Izzo‑Brown’s impact extends beyond the scoreboard; her squads have secured the school’s first Big 12 championship in 2013 and have produced a pipeline of talent that now competes professionally abroad. Alumni such as Ed Pastilong will be among those welcomed back for the anniversary weekend.
The 2026 celebrations will feature special in‑game tributes, a dedicated alumni weekend, and a series of events that highlight the program’s storied past while looking ahead to future successes.