The Central Washington University women's soccer team is set to open the 2026 campaign with a pair of matches in Northern California, taking on Cal Poly Humboldt on August 27 and Stanislaus State two days later. Both games will be played at College Creek Field in Arcata, Calif., offering the Wildcats an early test against regional rivals.
Head coach Grant Landy's Cal Poly Humboldt squad arrives fresh from its first NCAA Tournament appearance since 1996, having finished the previous season 8‑6‑8. The team will lean on leading scorer Alia Prentiss and goalkeeper Ari Beddoes, who were instrumental in that historic run.
Stanislaus State, under first‑year head coach Adam James, returns All‑CCAA forward Aliah Avila and top scorer Olivia Maragos, who helped the team to a 10‑5‑4 record in 2025. James brings a new tactical outlook to the program as it looks to build on last year's success.
A New Chapter for the Wildcats
Central Washington brings back a core group that helped define its 2025 campaign. Forward Jaylee Reynolds, who exploded as a freshman with four goals and nine points, headlines an attacking trio that also includes Cam Sheets and Kelsey Fulton.
Defensively, the Wildcats boast a strong back line featuring Bella Green, Lainee Derry and Kendal Smith, while senior goalkeeper Danika Galbraith returns after posting a 1.33 goals‑against average and five shutouts. Junior Leighton Menge will share duties in goal, adding depth to the net.
Adding to the coaching staff, former Washington and Portland midfielder Hailey Still joins as an assistant coach. She concludes her collegiate career with 18 goals and 38 points, bringing professional experience to the program.
The schedule places the Wildcats on the field at 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 27, against Cal Poly Humboldt, and again at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 29, versus Stanislaus State. Both matches will be streamed live, giving fans an early glimpse of how the new roster blends experience with fresh talent.