The fall soccer season is officially underway in Pittsburgh, heralding a busy stretch for the city’s college, high school and professional teams.
Preseason Action
Women’s Division I programs at the University of Pittsburgh, Duquesne University and Robert Morris University have already begun preseason camps, with the first Crosstown Derby scrimmage scheduled for August 12.
Pitt’s women’s soccer squad opens its season mid‑week on August 5, facing Rutgers, West Virginia, Youngstown State and Texas in a compact early slate that sets the tone for the campaign.
Head Coach Ben Waldrum, now in his second year, has emphasized a revamped recruiting class alongside a core of returning veterans, aiming to reverse a season that saw major roster turnover.
On the men’s side, Pitt’s program, under the guidance of Coach Jay Vidovich in his tenth year, is targeting a return to the NCAA tournament after a four‑year absence, bolstered by newcomers such as Caden Grabfelder, Pablo Portero, Cristian Lograsso, Ethan Pendelton and Cannon Scretchen.
Duquesne’s men’s team continues to punch above its weight, highlighted by recent road victories over ACC powerhouses Syracuse and Notre Dame, while several players have transitioned to professional contracts.
Robert Morris, fresh from a Horizon League title in 2024 and a 2025 semifinal run, enters the season with Coach Jon Potter at the helm, looking to build on a strong recent pedigree.
High School Kickoff
High school soccer across the region kicks off with official practices on August 17, followed by scrimmages on August 22 and regular‑season matches beginning August 28, promising a deep talent pool for local clubs.
The Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC, the city’s professional side, is set for an intense August schedule that includes fixtures against Sacramento Republic, Charleston Battery, Brooklyn FC and a marquee showdown with the Tampa Bay Rowdies on August 29.
With multiple teams across the city gearing up for competitive campaigns, the local soccer community anticipates a vibrant season that will showcase both emerging talent and established programs.