Ball State University's women's soccer program announced its 2026 regular‑season schedule, a 18‑match lineup that blends eleven Mid‑American Conference contests with a seven‑game non‑conference slate. The announcement comes on the heels of a strong 2025 campaign that saw the Cardinals finish 10‑7‑3 overall and 7‑4‑1 in conference play, earning a fourth seed in the MAC Tournament and a run to the semifinals.
The schedule was shaped after Northern Illinois departed for the Horizon League, leaving the Cardinals to face every remaining MAC opponent. Highlights include an exhibition match against Indiana State before the regular‑season opener at home against IU Indy on August 12, a game that will kick off a three‑match road stretch at Butler, Western Kentucky and Purdue in August.
Key Dates and Matchups
Ball State will host UMass on September 17 at the Briner Sports Complex to begin its MAC schedule, then navigate a busy October with home games against Eastern Michigan, Bowling Green and Ohio. The regular season will close on November 1 when the Cardinals welcome Buffalo to Muncie.
The Mid‑American Conference Tournament is set for Historic Crew Stadium in Columbus, Ohio, with matches scheduled for November 7, 10 and 13. The venue, located in the heart of Ohio's capital, will host the championship games that could determine the Cardinals' postseason fate.
Head coach Andy Stoots expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming season, noting the competitive nature of the MAC and the value of testing the team against a variety of opponents early in the year. "We’re excited to see how our roster evolves and how we can compete night in and night out," Stoots said in the announcement.
Beyond the on‑field action, the schedule reflects a strategic approach to preparation, offering a blend of home‑field advantage and challenging away environments. The Cardinals will look to translate their 2025 momentum into a strong 2026 campaign, aiming for a deeper run in the conference tournament and a potential NCAA tournament berth.