The University of Vermont women's soccer program is entering its 2026 campaign with a sense of optimism after a breakthrough season that saw the Catamounts reach the America East Conference title game, only to fall in a penalty shootout against Maine.
A Fresh Coaching Era and a Revamped Roster
Head coach Kristi Huizenga, now in her 15th year at the helm, guided the team to an 8‑4‑6 league record and a third‑place finish in the preseason coaches' poll, positioning the squad among the favorites to contend for the conference crown.
The roster blends senior leadership with fresh talent; senior forward Bridget Kennedy, who started all 18 games last year and logged a career‑high four assists, returns alongside midfielder Madeline Gardner, a recent all‑conference selection after scoring four goals and adding four assists.
Eight newcomers have joined the squad, including forward Kendra Ivaska from Georgia and Canadian midfielder Juliette Perreault, adding depth and versatility as the team prepares for a demanding schedule.
The season opens at home against Merrimack on August 12, a match that will be streamed live on ESPN+, and the schedule also features contests against Yale, Boston College and a rematch with Maine, the team they fell to in the 2025 final.
A pivotal moment came when Emily Mara struck a second‑half goal that propelled Vermont into the USL W final in its debut season, underscoring the team's potential to make a deeper run.
With the blend of experience, new talent, and a broadcast‑friendly slate, the Catamounts are poised to chase not only the America East title but also a national postseason opportunity.