Opening Road Test in Brookings
The Washington State women's soccer team is set to begin its 2026 campaign with a road test in Brookings, South Dakota, where it will meet the South Dakota State Jackrabbits on August 20.
Head coach Chris Citowicki, now in his eighth year leading the program, brings a pedigree that includes nine Big Sky titles at Montana and four NCAA tournament berths, and he arrives with a roster that blends 13 transfers, ten freshmen and eight veterans.
The Cougars opened the season with a 4‑1 victory over South Florida, a performance highlighted by Lexi Lee’s early strike and second‑half goals from Delaney Hawkins, Meg Devall and Makena Smith.
South Dakota State, meanwhile, rolled past its own opening opponents, posting shutout wins over Manitoba and Minnesota State‑Moorhead while racking up a combined 17 goals.
The new‑look Cougars feature a mix of experience and youthful energy, with returning players such as Keara Fitzgerald, the sixth‑year senior goalkeeper, returning from a season‑ending injury, and rookie Sidney Venier stepping into the starting lineup after Ashlyn Dvorak’s rib injury.
Adding to the story, Riley Carolan and Delaney Hawkins follow in the footsteps of their fathers, both of whom wore the WSU football jersey, underscoring a deep family connection to the university.
With fresh talent eager to make an impact and a coaching staff confident in its system, the team hopes to translate early momentum into a competitive season.