Marquette University’s men’s soccer team is set to open its 2026 campaign with two high‑stakes matches against the Oakland Golden Grizzlies and the Saint Mary’s Gaels, programs that have struggled in recent seasons.
Together, the two opponents posted a combined 5‑17‑12 record last year, with Oakland finishing 3‑9‑6 and Saint Mary’s at 2‑8‑6, positioning Marquette to gain early momentum.
Roster Reorganization and Coaching Priorities
The Golden Eagles return 14 of the 15 players on their roster, but the influx of 15 newcomers forces coaches to rethink offensive structures and to find stability between the posts.
Cameron Simpson, who posted a 1.50 goals‑against average and a .700 save percentage, is expected to start, yet his readiness is tempered by uncertainty surrounding Will Slawinski’s transition to Division 1 competition.
Oakland’s defensive anchor Cole Thompson brings a .738 save percentage but also a 1.42 goals‑per‑90 average, while midfielder Andriy Bilous contributed three goals and four assists last season.
Saint Mary’s will be without their top three scorers, leaving only Cameron Kobey, who managed a single goal and an assist, to shoulder the attacking load, a situation that could expose gaps in their defense.
Marquette holds a 2‑6‑0 record against Oakland, including a 3‑1 victory in 1979 and a 2‑0 loss in 2004, while the outcomes of these opening games could set the tone for the team’s Big East aspirations, especially as the squad seeks cohesion amid a reshaped roster.