Season Opener Preview
The Bryant University women's soccer team will open the 2026 campaign this Sunday, hosting Stonehill at Beirne Stadium with kickoff set for 1:00 p.m.
After a 2025 season that delivered a 5‑5‑8 record and a first‑ever America East Tournament semifinal, the Bulldogs are looking to translate that momentum into a championship pursuit.
Andy Biggs emphasized that the squad has spent the offseason fine‑tuning chemistry and sharpening tactical discipline, noting that the blend of veteran leadership and fresh talent creates a promising foundation.
Key returnees anchor the attack. Junior forward Caitlin Forshay, who netted three goals last year and has five scores in 36 career appearances, will look to add depth to the front line.
Senior Samantha Zaslaw, who recorded 20 shots and two goals in 2025, returns to bolster the offense, while sophomore Grayson Edwards, the 2025 America East All‑Rookie team selection, aims to build on her rookie campaign that featured a goal and two assists in 18 games.
Midfielders Nyema Prentice‑Whyte and Delaney Callahan bring experience and versatility, providing the team with additional options in the central zones.
The defense, which set a school record with ten shutouts in 2025, returns core players including Colleen Ardolino, an All‑Conference Second Team honoree who contributed three goals from the back, and goalkeeper Shannon Mejia, who posted a career‑high eight saves and nine shutouts with a .778 save percentage.
Adding to the mix, transfer Morgan Nelson from UNC Upstate arrives with a game‑winning goal already to her name from her rookie season, bringing extra firepower to the attack.
Looking Ahead
With a roster that blends seasoned defenders, dynamic midfielders, and opportunistic forwards, the Bulldogs are poised to challenge for the America East title once again.
The early season matchup against Stonehill serves as a litmus test for the team's cohesion and tactical execution, and fans can expect an energetic performance as the program seeks to extend its historic run.