Duke University’s women’s soccer program revealed its 2026 schedule this week, a slate that promises both testing early‑season road trips and a home stretch that could set the tone for a deep postseason run.
A demanding road ahead
Head coach Kieran Hall confirmed that the season will open with back‑to‑back road games against Southern California and UCLA, opponents that not only boast recent NCAA Tournament bids but also feature former Duke graduate Jane Alukonis now leading the Trojans.
The first home match is slated for August 20 against FIU, followed by a contest with Rhode Island on August 23, marking the start of a five‑game stretch that includes four contests on the team’s own turf over a five‑week window.
Duke will then shift its focus to ACC play, opening conference action by hosting Stanford on September 12, a matchup that adds another top‑ranked opponent to the schedule.
The Blue Devils will face a gauntlet of 11 teams that each posted double‑digit win totals last season and 11 programs ranked within the top 71 of the final RPI, including clubs that have captured nine of the last ten NCAA championships.
Adding to the excitement, Hall welcomed back eight starters from the 17‑5‑1 side that reached the College Cup, while the roster also gains two All‑America transfers — Katie Shea Collins from South Carolina and Sam Courtwright from Texas Tech — who were highlighted by TopDrawerSoccer as the nation’s No. 1 portal class in March.
The incoming freshmen class features Rylee McLanahan, Natalie Chudowsky and Sofia Nuñez, while five veterans — including goal‑scorers Minestrella, Oliaro, Collins and Courtwright — have combined for 79 career goals, and the defense returns five starters who logged at least 13 starts a year ago.
With a blend of experience, elite recruits and a challenging schedule, Hall expressed confidence that the 2026 campaign could once again position Duke among the nation’s elite.