Preseason Expectations
The Big West Conference released its 2026 women's soccer preseason coaches' poll this week, revealing UC Santa Barbara and Cal Poly as the joint favorites. The Gauchos earned 100 points, bolstered by four first‑place votes, while Cal Poly matched the tally. The poll underscores the conference’s depth, with ten other programs also receiving votes.
UC Santa Barbara’s recent form adds weight to the preseason optimism. In 2025 the Gauchos posted a 13‑5‑5 record, marking the fourth‑most single‑season wins in Big West history. After capturing the championship in 2024, the team fell short in the 2025 final, fueling a renewed drive to return to the championship match for a third straight year.
Spotlight on Emily Caughey
Senior defender Emily Caughey, a cornerstone of that defense, was named to the preseason All‑Big West first team. She has appeared in 63 career games, starting 59 of them, and has logged over 1,150 minutes per season. In 2025 she recorded a season‑high two goals and five points, showcasing her ability to contribute offensively from the back line.
Exhibition Match Preview
The Gauchos will test their readiness in an exhibition against Trinity Western on August 8 at Harder Stadium. The matchup offers an early gauge of the squad’s chemistry before the regular season begins. Season tickets for the game are available through the university’s ticket office, online, or by calling (805) 893‑UCSB.