The Michigan Tech Huskies have been placed tenth in the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference’s 2026 preseason poll, a distinction announced on August 25 that underscores the team’s rising profile.
The Huskies open the season at home against Minnesota Duluth on Friday at 6 p.m. at Kearly Stadium, a matchup that will set the tone for a campaign that includes 18 contests, half of them on the road.
Across the schedule, Michigan Tech will meet four opponents that reached the NCAA Tournament last year — St. Cloud State, Northwood, Cedarville and Grand Valley State — adding a layer of excitement and challenge to each encounter.
Key personnel and tactical outlook
Head coach Melissa Kuhar, now in her third year at the helm, has assembled a roster that blends seasoned defenders such as Allison Millina and Olivia Gette with a dynamic attacking duo of transfers Addison Grogan and Melissa Riley, while veteran goalkeeper Bri Barrows brings 36 career appearances to the mix.
The broader conference landscape sees Grand Valley State leading the preseason coaches’ poll with 81 points and nine first‑place votes, followed by Saginaw Valley State, Ferris State and a host of other contenders, with Michigan Tech rounding out the top ten.
With a balanced slate of home and away games, the Huskies are poised to test their depth and chemistry early, aiming to translate preseason optimism into a strong finish when the GLIAC season unfolds.