BIG EAST Women's Soccer 2026: Season Preview
The 2026 BIG EAST women's soccer season opens on Wednesday, August 12, kicking off a busy non‑conference schedule that will test teams early in the year.
Preseason coaches' poll results place Georgetown at the summit with 98 points and eight first‑place votes, while UConn follows with 89 points and two first‑place votes, and Xavier sits third with 78 points and the remaining vote.
Creighton and Villanova round out the top five, setting the stage for a competitive conference campaign.
Defending Champion and Opening Match
Xavier, the reigning BIG EAST tournament champion, begins its season on the road against Michigan State, a game that could shape early perceptions of the team.
Individual Honors
Peyton Kohls of Xavier was named Preseason Offensive Player of the Year, while Georgetown’s Lizzie Heller earned Preseason Midfielder of the Year and Kaya Hanson was selected Defensive Player of the Year. Villanova goalkeeper Hannah Dickinson received the Preseason Goalkeeper of the Year award.
The opening week will feature seven BIG EAST squads in action on Sunday, August 16, with contests scheduled across Minnesota, Colorado, the Midwest and other regions, providing early opportunities for teams to establish momentum.
As the season unfolds, the conference anticipates surprising results, breakout performances and a fresh battle for the championship title.