Season Opener Preview
Bryant University’s women’s soccer program will begin its 2026 campaign on August 16 at Beirne Stadium in Smithfield, Rhode Island, facing Stonehill College in a match that promises to rekindle a rivalry that has defined the program’s early years.
The Bulldogs hold a 7‑3‑1 edge in the 12‑meeting series, a record that underscores their dominance while adding extra stakes to every encounter.
Adding to the excitement, Grayson Edwards found the back of the net in her collegiate debut last season, scoring the decisive goal in a 1‑0 victory that set the tone for the rivalry.
Both Colleen Ardolino and Caitlin Forshay return as Bryant’s leading scorers, each having contributed three goals in the previous campaign and poised to lead the attack.
In goal, Shannon Mejia has been a wall for opponents, posting a save percentage above .750 in each of the last two seasons and a career mark of .790 across 24 appearances.
Stonehill, coming off a 6‑8‑4 record in 2025, opened their season with a 1‑1 draw against UNH before turning their attention to the Bulldogs. The team will be without graduated top scorer Hannah Anselmo, but senior forward Kayla Cassidy, who tallied six goals and two assists last year, is expected to shoulder much of the offensive load.
Broadcast Details
The game is slated for a 1:00 PM kickoff and will be streamed live on ESPN+, where the broadcast will feature commentary from former collegiate players and analysis of the key tactical battles expected on the field.