The United Soccer Coaches have released their Division II preseason Top 25 for the 2026 campaign, and the Colorado School of Mines women's soccer program finds itself positioned at No. 12. The ranking reflects both the team's recent successes and the high expectations placed on a program that has consistently competed at the national level.
Mines capped the 2025 season by capturing their 11th Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference tournament championship and securing a spot in the NCAA Division II Women's Soccer Championship for the 17th straight year. The Orediggers also hosted opening‑round matches for the fourth consecutive season, underscoring their role as a staple in the postseason landscape.
Key Players and Honors
The individual accolades followed the team's collective triumphs. Seniors Bella Campos and Natalie Rouse earned All‑American honors from both the United Soccer Coaches and the D2CCA, while classmates Callie Fuhr, Allie Lundgren, Kaitlyn Manalili and Afton Rasco were recognized on the All‑Region team, highlighting the depth of talent across the roster.
The preseason poll also showcased the strength of the national field, with defending champions Florida Tech sitting at No. 1. Joining them in the top five are Cal Poly Pomona, Franklin Pierce, Washburn and Dallas Baptist, while fellow RMAC members UCCS and Colorado Mesa were mentioned in the opening poll, placing Mines at No. 10 among the conference's representatives.
Looking ahead, the Orediggers will open the 2026 schedule on August 27 when they host Rollins. Additional non‑conference opponents include Western Oregon, Angelo State and St. Mary's (TX), and the team will continue to leverage its home‑field advantage by hosting several matches throughout the season.
With a blend of seasoned leaders and promising underclassmen, the 2026 campaign promises to add another chapter to the Orediggers' storied history. The combination of a strong preseason ranking, recent championship pedigree and a challenging slate of opponents sets the stage for another competitive year in the RMAC and beyond.