A historic start to the season
The University of Maryland’s women’s soccer program will welcome Fordham to Ludwig Field on August 16, 2026, for a 12:00 p.m. Eastern kickoff that marks the fourth meeting between the two schools. Maryland holds a 2‑1 edge in the all‑time series, having opened with a 5‑0 victory in 2002 before dropping a 2012 encounter.
The Terps enter the matchup riding a nine‑game unbeaten streak in season‑opening contests, a run that dates back to 1995 and includes a 22‑4‑5 record over that span. Head coach Michael Marchiano, who guided the team to six wins in 2025, will look to add another chapter to that legacy as he prepares his squad for the new campaign.
Maryland’s 2025 season featured shutout victories and key Big Ten triumphs over Indiana and Purdue, underscoring the program’s defensive solidity and offensive potency. The upcoming schedule also includes contests against Old Dominion, UCLA, and Northwestern, each of which promises to test the Terps’ depth and versatility.
Adding to the excitement, three Terrapin standouts — Mckinley Heaven, Lisa McIntyre, and Faith Luckey — have been highlighted as Big Ten Players To Watch for the 2026 season. Their performances will be closely followed by fans eager to see how the newcomers and returning veterans blend into a cohesive unit.
Beyond the on‑field action, the opener will be part of Maryland’s B1G+ broadcast schedule, giving the game broader exposure and offering special fan events at Ludwig Field. The atmosphere is expected to be electric as supporters rally behind a team that has consistently proven resilient in its opening fixtures.