The Hope College women's soccer team is gearing up for the 2026 season with a clear mission: to replace the production lost from four departing scorers and to forge a cohesive unit from a blend of returning veterans and new talent.
Head coach Holly Van Noord describes the upcoming campaign as a 'blank canvas', emphasizing the opportunity to shape chemistry and leadership from the ground up as the roster expands to 28 players.
The squad features eleven newcomers — nine freshmen and two junior transfers — who bring a fresh dynamic, while the roster also includes six seniors, nine juniors and three sophomores, creating a balanced mix of experience and enthusiasm.
Among the standout returnees, senior goalkeeper Clara Feenstra of Hudsonville, Michigan, comes off a season that earned her two‑time All‑MIAA honors and a spot on the All‑Region Third Team, while junior defender Mia Hesley of Portage, Michigan, adds two‑time All‑MIAA recognition and recent All‑Region Third Team accolades.
Senior defender Halle Barnard from Rockford, Michigan, emerges as the team's top returning scorer, having contributed four goals and four assists in the previous campaign, providing an offensive spark from the back line.
Leadership will be anchored by captains Bri Rose, Audra Usiak and Mia Hesley, whose influence extends beyond the pitch through character and social awareness, guiding the younger cohort with a steady hand.
The schedule opens on September 1 against Cornerstone University and will take the team across the country, including matches in Virginia, a league showdown at Saint Mary's College on September 30, and rivalry games against Carthage College and Calvin College.
Home and away fixtures will punctuate the calendar, culminating in a Senior Day clash with Alma College on October 3, offering a final platform for the departing seniors to leave their mark.
With a blend of seasoned leadership and youthful energy, the Flying Dutch hope to translate their early-season momentum into a competitive run that honors their recent 12‑4‑3 record and pushes toward future success.
Key Players to Watch
Clara Feenstra's command of the penalty area, Mia Hesley's defensive steadiness and Halle Barnard's knack for finding space in the final third are expected to be pivotal as the team integrates its new pieces.