The Ball State soccer team is set to host Indiana State in an exhibition match at the Briner Sports Complex in Muncie on Thursday at 5 p.m., giving fans an early glimpse of what’s to come.
The game serves as the first public preview of the Cardinals’ 2026 season, which will officially open on August 12 with a home contest against IU Indy.
During the 2025 campaign, Ball State posted an 8‑6‑6 record, going 4‑2‑3 in the Missouri Valley Conference and finishing third in the league under head coach Paul Lawrence.
Meanwhile, Indiana State wrapped up its inaugural year under head coach Andy Stoots with a 10‑7‑3 mark, posting a 7‑4‑1 record in the Mid‑American Conference.
The Cardinals will look to carry that momentum into their next home fixture, scheduled for August 30 against Cincinnati at 1 p.m.
A Preview of the Upcoming Season
The exhibition match not only showcases the talent on both sides but also highlights the growing interest in college soccer within the region. With the new season just weeks away, coaches are using these early games to fine‑tune strategies and build chemistry among players who will be key to the Cardinals’ ambitions.
Fans attending the Thursday night showdown can expect a competitive atmosphere, as both programs aim to test their line‑ups before the regular season kicks off. The match will be streamed live, allowing supporters who cannot travel to Muncie to follow the action online.