The Lincoln Blue Tigers have secured a spot in the United Soccer Coaches Association preseason Top 25, landing at No. 16 as the 2026 season approaches. The ranking reflects the program’s steady rise and sets high expectations for a squad that reached the Sweet 16 a year ago.
A Look Back at Last Season
During the previous campaign the Tigers advanced to the Sweet 16 before falling 1-0 to Rogers State, a team that entered the poll at No. 6. Their run was highlighted by a series of tight victories and a resilient defensive display that kept them competitive against nationally ranked opponents.
Non‑Conference Tests
Before diving into conference play, Lincoln will test themselves against a variety of opponents in Kentucky, where they have three exhibition matches scheduled for Aug. 15, 17 and 19. The regular season opens with road games against Saginaw Valley State in Michigan on Aug. 27 and Northeastern State in Oklahoma on Aug. 30, providing early challenges that could shape their momentum.
Conference Calendar
Great Lakes Valley Conference play begins on Sept. 5 with a home matchup against Illinois Springfield. The schedule then unfolds with a series of away contests against Upper Iowa, Truman State, Rockhurst, Indianapolis, Maryville and Drury, before returning home for games versus McKendree, Southwest Baptist, William Jewell, Lewis, Missouri‑St. Louis, Quincy and Missouri S&T. The blend of home and road fixtures offers the Tigers ample opportunity to climb the conference standings.