The Grand Valley State Lakers, long accustomed to dominating the GLIAC and NCAA Division II, found themselves absent from the postseason last year for the first time since 2019, finishing a modest 7‑3 overall.
Despite the setback, the program enters the new campaign with a preseason No. 6 ranking in Lindy's poll, a testament to the belief in the team's potential and the impact of offseason work.
A Season of Renewal
Coach Scott Wooster, now in his second year at the helm, spoke of the value of continuity, noting that the same core group of players will allow the squad to build on its recent development and chemistry.
Schedule Highlights
The 2026 slate features a series of challenging road tests, including contests against Charleston (W.Va.), West Texas A&M, Ashland (Ohio), Judson College, Wayne State, Michigan Tech, Ferris State, Saginaw Valley State, Roosevelt (Ill.) and Northern Michigan, before concluding the regular season at home against Davenport.
Postseason Outlook
Playoff action is slated to begin on November 21, with the first round yet to be assigned a venue, setting the stage for the Lakers to reclaim their place among the nation's elite.