Preseason Rankings Set the Stage
The Concordia University Irvine women's soccer program has once again been recognized among the elite of the Pacific West Conference, landing in the second spot of the coaches' preseason poll for the second year in a row. Only Point Loma earned the preseason favorite designation, but the Golden Eagles' consistent performance has kept them firmly in the conversation.
A large part of that optimism centers on Bella Barrett, the junior who captured PacWest Player of the Year honors last season. Her knack for finding the back of the net early — scoring six game‑winning goals within the first 17 minutes of matches — has already placed her among the program's all‑time leaders.
Roster Highlights and New Additions
Defensive stability also returns, with Sloane De Torres anchoring the back line after starting every match in the previous campaign and earning Second Team All‑PacWest accolades. Alongside her, Ashley Grubert, an Irvine High School alum, contributed a decisive goal against San Francisco State and garnered Third Team All‑Conference recognition.
The midfield will see fresh faces such as Jocelyn Barzegar and Mia Psarras joining returning forwards Antonella Russo and Sarah Venegas, both of whom were named Third Team All‑PacWest as sophomores. Together they form a balanced attack that blends experience with new talent.
A Challenging Schedule
The Golden Eagles open the season with a home matchup against Cal State San Bernardino on September 5, followed by road games at Cal Poly Humboldt and a showdown with nationally ranked No. 2 Cal Poly Pomona on September 12. The schedule also includes a conference opener against Hawai'i Hilo on September 19, setting the tone for a demanding campaign.
Fans can expect a competitive slate that pits the Golden Eagles against some of the nation's top Division II programs, and the coaching staff believes the early tests will sharpen the team for the rigors of conference play.