Preseason Watchlist Highlights
LSU Soccer has revealed the five athletes who earned spots on the 2026 SEC Preseason Watchlist, a preseason honor that spotlights the program’s depth and ambition as it prepares for the upcoming campaign.
The Tigers enter the 2026 season with a national ranking of No. 16, the highest preseason position the program has held since 2018, underscoring the excitement surrounding the squad’s potential.
Ava Galligan’s Breakout Year
Senior forward Ava Galligan, a 2025 First Team All-SEC selection, was the catalyst for LSU’s run to the NCAA Sweet 16 last year. She contributed 11 goals and six game‑winning strikes, earning widespread praise for her clutch performances.
Galligan’s impact extends beyond raw numbers; her ability to find the back of the net in critical moments has positioned her as a leader both on and off the field, and her inclusion on the watchlist reflects that influence.
Other Tigers on the Radar
Alongside Galligan, midfielders Sariyah Bailey and Allie Fryer, defender Kelsey Major, and goalkeeper Audur Scheving round out the watchlist cohort. Bailey, a recent SEC All‑Freshman Team honoree, brings a fresh spark after earning Third Team All‑SEC recognition in 2025.
Fryer arrives from BYU, where she amassed 30 career goals, adding veteran experience to LSU’s attacking options. Major and Scheving return for their senior seasons, with Scheving posting 42 saves and six wins a year ago.
Season Outlook
The watchlist announcement coincides with the team’s season opener against Wake Forest on August 12, marking the 34th year of women’s soccer in the SEC. With a blend of proven talent and promising newcomers, LSU aims to translate its preseason optimism into a strong performance on the national stage.