The University of Portland’s women’s soccer program is gearing up for the 2026 season after a strong 2025 campaign that saw the Pilots finish second in the West Coast Conference with a 10‑3‑6 record.
Head coach Michelle French has highlighted the team’s disciplined defensive unit, which allowed the second fewest goals in the conference and ranked 11th nationally, setting a solid platform for the upcoming schedule.
Leadership at the Helm
Goalkeeper Sophia Hills, a senior who earned All‑WCC Second Team honors, backstopped the side with a .845 save percentage and just nine goals conceded in 16 appearances.
Joining her in guiding the backline will be captains Violet Rademacher and Aliyah Dockter, veterans whose experience helped the Pilots go 4‑0‑5 on the road during the final month of last season.
Rademacher led the offense with seven goals and garnered All‑WCC First Team and All‑West Region Second Team recognition, while Dockter’s consistent presence earned her All‑WCC Honorable Mention and All‑West Region Second Team selections.
The Pilots open the new campaign with a marquee matchup against the Denver Pioneers on October 17, and will also test themselves against nationally ranked opponents such as the No. 12 Washington Huskies and No. 18 Wake Forest in August.
While the defense looks to remain a strength, the coaching staff is emphasizing a more potent attack to complement the established backline and maintain the program’s culture of thoughtful player development.
Rooted in the legacy of legendary coach Clive Charles, the team continues to blend competitive drive with community support, aiming to translate its defensive discipline into a breakout offensive year.