Fall practice for the Portland State University women's soccer team kicked off on August 13, 2026, marking the start of a season that could reshape the program's recent trajectory. Under the guidance of third‑year head coach Maureen Whitney, the Vikings are looking to improve on a fourth‑place finish in the Big Sky Conference from the previous campaign.
A challenging schedule ahead
The Vikings have mapped out a 17‑match slate that blends home comforts with road tests. Eight of the contests will be played on the familiar turf of Portland, while nine will take the team across the western United States, including trips to face California Baptist, San Diego State and Boise State. Non‑conference matchups will also feature opponents such as Sacramento State, San Francisco State and CSU Bakersfield, providing a varied testing ground for the squad.
Defensively, the Vikings built on a strong 2025 foundation, allowing just five goals across eight conference fixtures. The unit’s reliability helped the team secure six All‑Big Sky honorees and contributed to a 3‑3‑2 record in league play. The coaching staff credits the depth of the back line and the experience of returning letterwinners for that consistency.
Key figures to watch
Among the players expected to drive the attack are senior forward Grace Sarabia, who led the team in minutes played last season and recorded two goals from 24 shots, and midfielder Aliayha Saldana, the 2024 Big Sky Freshman of the Year whose 35 shots in 2025 topped the roster. Elle Frazier, a 2024 second‑team All‑Big Sky selection, returns from injury and will add experience to the forward line.
Beyond the pitch, the program continues to excel academically, with 14 players earning Academic All‑Big Sky recognition. The team also reflects a local flavor, as three seniors hail from Tigard, Oregon, and previously starred together at Tigard High School, underscoring the program’s roots in the community.