The University of Memphis women's soccer program, a 16‑time conference champion, is set to begin its 2026 campaign with a pair of home fixtures against Kennesaw State and Alabama, marking the start of a schedule that blends tradition with fresh ambition.
Experience and renewal
Senior captain Finley Lavin, the only returning senior on the roster, will be honored on Senior Day as she leads a group that returns more than 60 % of last season’s production in goals, assists, minutes, starts and saves, while also welcoming three transfers and seven freshmen who add depth and new perspectives.
Rankings and recognition
National recognition has followed the Tigers, with Finley Lavin placed No. 9, Ai Kitagawa No. 16 and Abby Kudla No. 97 on TopDrawerSoccer’s Women's College Preseason Top 100, and the team ranked No. 21 in the United Soccer Coaches Poll and No. 16 in the outlet’s own preseason rankings.
Coaching continuity
Head coach Brooks Monaghan enters his 27th season at the helm, having amassed 300 career victories and 16 conference titles; his long‑standing presence is underscored by a 40‑match unbeaten streak at the Track and Soccer Complex that began in October 2021.
A demanding non‑conference schedule
The Tigers will open against Kennesaw State on Wednesday, a match in which they hold a 2‑0 series advantage and a 7‑0 road win from the previous season, before welcoming Alabama on Saturday; the Crimson Tide enter the contest with a strong returning core, including forward Larkin Thomason, who ranked second on the team in goals and points last year, and midfielder Melina Rebimbas, who contributed three goals and seven assists in 2025.
With a blend of veteran leadership, high‑ranked talent and a challenging slate of opponents, the Memphis women's soccer team looks poised to extend its storied legacy into another successful season.