The University of Cincinnati women's soccer team is set to kick off its 2026 season on August 12, hosting Eastern Kentucky at Gettler Stadium in Cincinnati, Ohio. The match will start at 7 p.m. Eastern Time and mark the first of 18 games on the Bearcats' schedule.
A Fresh Look for the Bearcats
All of Cincinnati's home matches will be free to attend and will stream live on ESPN+, giving fans across the country a chance to follow the team's progress. The 18‑match slate features a balanced mix of nine home and nine away contests, with the first road swing taking the Bearcats to Illinois, Ball State, Central Michigan and Northern Kentucky over the next few weeks.
The early road trip will test the squad against a variety of opponents, including a Big 12 showdown at Kansas on September 18. Later in the season, Cincinnati will travel to Texas for a three‑match stretch against Texas Tech, Baylor and TCU in late September and early October, before returning home for the final regular‑season game against West Virginia on November 5.
Key Additions and Returning Starters
Five starters from the 2025 campaign return, including midfielders Anna Barber, Emma Gioffre and Carly Oubs. Their experience should provide stability as the team integrates new talent.
While starting goalkeeper Camryn Miller has moved on, the core defensive line of Gioffre, Oubs and Christa Gibbons remains intact, offering continuity between the posts.
Fresh Faces and Transfer Impact
The 2026 roster also welcomes eight freshmen and six transfers, each bringing a different skill set to the mix. Goalkeeper Brylee Borgman, who logged 70 saves and over 1,000 minutes in 13 appearances for Central Michigan last season, is expected to compete for playing time. Midfielder Vanessa Manoil contributed three goals and seven assists at Daytona State, while defender Amber Branum amassed 50 matches at Wright State, recording a goal, five assists and 32 shots.
Home Opener and Final Stretch
The season will culminate with a home showdown against West Virginia on November 5, the final regular‑season match before any potential postseason play.
Coaches and players alike are optimistic that the blend of seasoned veterans and fresh talent will keep the Bearcats competitive in the Big 12 and beyond. With every home game available at no cost and broadcast on ESPN+, the program hopes to broaden its fan base while building on the momentum from a promising previous season.