A New Era Begins
The University of Michigan women's soccer team will begin its 2026 campaign with a road test at Utah Valley on August 13, kicking off at 7 p.m. Mountain Time. The match marks the third meeting between the two programs, a series that stands tied at one win apiece, and it will be the first time the Wolverines play on Utah soil.
This opening fixture also signals the start of Dave DiIanni's first season as head coach, a milestone that adds a 24th year to his coaching résumé and a 13th chapter in the Big Ten. DiIanni, who previously served as an assistant at the University of North Carolina, brings a wealth of experience to a program eager for a fresh direction.
Michigan’s roster reflects that transition, featuring a core of returning talent such as goal‑scorer Elle Ervin, who tallied seven goals last season, and playmaker Adi Walick, who contributed seven assists. Alongside them, midfielders Campbell Jewell and Ellie Fife have been highlighted among the Big Ten Players to Watch for 2026, underscoring the blend of experience and promise.
The team will welcome 11 new faces, including six freshmen — Malia Zillman, Brooklyn Reid, Anabelle Egeland, Melisa Kekic, Torah Betteridge, and Ellie Lesser — and five transfers: Brooklyn Marn, Natelle El Mokbel, Rylie McKinney, Luciana Latino, and Ana Schremp. Their arrival adds depth and competition as the Wolverines prepare for a schedule that includes six non‑conference games and a 12‑game Big Ten slate.
The upcoming slate is stacked with challenges, pitting Michigan against ranked opponents such as No. 2 Notre Dame, No. 7 Michigan State, No. 12 Washington, No. 17 Ohio State and No. 22 Wisconsin. The home opener is slated for August 22 against Xavier at the U‑M Soccer Stadium, giving fans a first glimpse of the new‑look squad before the road test in Utah.