Grand Valley State University’s women’s soccer program enters the 2026 season riding the momentum of a 19‑2‑1 record and a GLIAC championship earned in 2025. The Lakers finished the previous campaign with a dominant performance that placed them among the nation’s top Division II programs, setting the stage for another ambitious campaign.
Second‑year head coach Katelyn Longino, who guided the team to its most successful season in program history, emphasizes continuity while weaving in fresh ideas. Her vision centers on preserving the defensive solidity that characterized the 2025 squad while unlocking the offensive potential of a roster brimming with experience.
Among the returning stalwarts are sophomore goalkeeper Macie Hunter, who posted 18 starts and earned D2CCA third‑team All‑America honors, as well as senior defender Alex Williams and junior defender Vesna Dennison, key figures in a back line that limited opponents to a low goal total. Ivy Wilhelm, the reigning GLIAC Freshman of the Year, returns as a forward after scoring three game‑winning goals, and Alli Parker, a United Soccer Coaches second‑team All‑America selection, will share the attacking duties.
The offensive lineup also features junior forwards Kendall Aikens and Sarah Fromm, who contributed significantly in the previous season, and newcomers Ana Spaine and Lina Rea, both of whom earned All‑Region recognition at their former schools. Sophomores Rachel Wright and Ava Kozak bring Division I experience from Wake Forest and Marquette, respectively, adding depth and versatility.
Looking Ahead
The schedule promises competitive matchups from the outset. The Lakers open against Ashland University on August 22, then host Cedarville on Alumni Day (August 29) in a rematch of last year’s NCAA Tournament encounter. A pivotal conference clash with Saginaw Valley State is slated for September 20, while a later battle with the University of Wisconsin‑Parkside on October 9 will test the team against a squad that handed them their only GLIAC loss a season ago.
With a blend of seasoned leaders and promising newcomers, Grand Valley State aims to defend its GLIAC title and make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament. The combination of Coach Longino’s strategic acumen, a fortified defense, and a dynamic attack positions the Lakers as a formidable contender as the new season unfolds.