Ball State University has released the full 2026 women's soccer schedule, a plan that blends a rigorous Mid‑American Conference slate with a challenging set of non‑conference fixtures. The announcement comes as the program looks to build on the momentum generated by a strong finish to the previous season.
A competitive schedule on the horizon
The Cardinals will contest eleven conference matches, the backbone of the MAC season, while also testing themselves against seven opponents outside the league. This blend of games is designed to sharpen tactics and prepare the team for the intensity of tournament play.
The season opens with an exhibition match against Indiana State, followed by a home contest versus IU Indy on August 12. Both games serve as early litmus tests before the first official conference showdown arrives later in the month.
Throughout the campaign, Ball State will travel to face a mix of familiar rivals and new adversaries, with a balanced split of home and away fixtures. The varied schedule is intended to expose the team to different playing styles and competitive environments.
The climax of the regular season will be the Mid‑American Conference Tournament, scheduled for early November at Historic Crew Stadium in Columbus, Ohio. The tournament will span three days, featuring matches on November 7, 10 and 13, and will bring together the conference's top teams for a final push at the title.
Head coach Andy Stoots expressed enthusiasm about the slate, emphasizing that the mix of opponents and venues will test the team's depth and resilience. "We’re excited about the competition ahead and the energy our fans will bring to each match," Stoots said in the announcement.
Ball State enters the 2026 season riding the success of a 2025 campaign that ended with a 10‑7‑3 overall record and a 7‑4‑1 mark in MAC play, culminating in a semifinal appearance at the conference tournament. The experience gained from that run should provide a solid foundation as the Cardinals aim to contend for a championship.