The Loyola University Chicago women's soccer program opened its 2026 preseason with a home exhibition against Milwaukee on August 5, a match that drew a modest crowd to Loyola Soccer Park and offered fans a first glimpse of a roster reshaped by ten newcomers.
New Faces on the Pitch
Head coach Jon Sandoval introduced a wave of fresh talent, highlighting goalkeeper Anna Bigenwald and midfielder Chloe Cline among the ten players who will wear the Ramblers' colors this fall.
The squad also welcomed Camryn Hart, a former assistant at Purdue Fort Wayne, who brings a season of collegiate coaching experience to the staff.
A Road Trip to Ann Arbor
Two days after the Milwaukee game, the Ramblers traveled to Ann Arbor, Michigan, where they faced the University of Michigan on August 6 in a 2 p.m. CT kickoff, testing the team's early chemistry on the road.
The regular season officially begins on August 12 with a home contest against Central Michigan, followed by away matches at Iowa and Michigan State, setting the stage for a demanding opening stretch.
Conference Play on the Horizon
Atlantic 10 competition kicks in on September 20 with a home game against Fordham, and the schedule continues with matchups against La Salle, Dayton, Saint Louis, Duquesne and a final home clash with Saint Joseph's later in the season.
After a series of road games against Rhode Island, St. Bonaventure, George Washington and VCU, the Ramblers will close the regular season with a home match versus Saint Joseph's on November 1, giving the senior class a final chance to shine at Loyola Soccer Park.
With a blend of experienced returnees and promising newcomers, the 2026 Ramblers hope to build on last year's progress and contend for a strong finish in the Atlantic 10.