The University of Denver’s women’s soccer team will open its 2026 campaign on Thursday, August 27, at 7 p.m. Mountain Time, hosting Colorado College at the University of Denver Soccer Stadium.
The Pioneers enter the match after a 9‑5‑4 record in West Coast Conference play last season, a campaign that marked their first year in the league after a 13‑year stretch in the Summit League.
Head coach Julianne Sitch, now in her fourth year at the helm, brings a 29‑16‑13 overall record and a 9‑5‑4 conference mark, having guided the program through a period of transition and growth.
Among the returning standouts, sophomore goalkeeper Lucy Garnsey has already recorded ten saves in the first three games, while freshman forward Reese Morgan led the team in shot attempts during the recent road test against Northwestern.
The opening match will be part of a series of community events, including a Back to School Night that features pencil‑pouch giveaways and a free youth sports clinic for children aged seven to thirteen at Barton Lacrosse Stadium from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.
The clinic offers local families a chance to experience college‑level training while the team celebrates the debut of its 2026 kit, a visual that will be on display throughout the season.
Alumni activity also made headlines, as former DU starter Alina Santos signed a professional contract with Southampton FC Women earlier this month, marking the latest success story from the program.
Historically, Denver holds a 1‑0‑2 edge over Colorado College in the last three meetings and remains unbeaten at home against the Tigers, a streak that adds extra excitement for the upcoming contest.
A New Era in the West Coast Conference
Looking ahead, the Pioneers are scheduled to travel for matches against Northern Colorado on August 30 at noon Mountain Time and Montana on September 6 at 1 p.m., with season tickets available starting at $69 through the Ritchie Center Box Office or online.