A demanding non‑conference slate
The Oregon State Beavers women’s soccer team is set to begin a challenging non‑conference campaign that will test their depth early in the season. Their first test comes on August 5, when they host Portland State in an exhibition that will give the new roster a chance to gel before the real battles begin.
The following week, on August 12, the Beavers travel to face South Carolina, a program that reached the NCAA Tournament last year. Forward Mackenzie Johnson and midfielder Cuyler Zulauf will lead the offense, bringing experience and skill that the Beavers hope to counter.
South Carolina’s recent tournament run adds extra intrigue, and the Beavers will be looking to exploit the experience of Johnson and the playmaking of Zulauf as they seek an early statement.
A week later, on August 16, Oregon State meets Lipscomb, the ASUN champions who pulled off a surprise upset over Mississippi State in the tournament, giving the Beavers another formidable opponent.
The home opener arrives on August 19 against Bushnell, a program that posted its best record ever at 7‑6‑4 last season, offering the Beavers a realistic chance to notch their first win.
Four days later, on August 23, the team heads to Weber State, a squad that defeated them a year ago but has undergone significant turnover, creating a fresh dynamic for the matchup.
The marquee Civil War clash against the Oregon Ducks is scheduled for August 27, pitting two programs that both endured disappointing 2025 campaigns and are eager to rebound.
On August 30, the Beavers host the Washington Huskies, the Big Ten champions who advanced to the NCAA Tournament quarterfinals, adding a high‑profile test to the schedule.
A rematch with Utah on September 6 will see the Beavers avenging a previous victory after Utah received a red card, a moment that could swing momentum.
The non‑conference slate also includes a series against former West Coast Conference rivals Seattle, Portland and LMU, before closing with a trip to Eastern Washington on September 24.
Among the returning talent, Mackenzie Johnson, Cuyler Zulauf, Skylar Cole, Elidia Cervantes Carlos, Alex Buck, Jadyn Holdenreid, Tanner Ijams, Devi Dudley and Noelle Raczykowski will bring a blend of experience and youthful energy to the pitch.
While the schedule is undeniably tough, the Beavers see openings against Bushnell, Weber State and Eastern Washington, and the outcomes will help shape the tone of the new Pac‑12 era.