Preseason Rankings
The United Soccer Coaches Association has placed the Lincoln Blue Tigers at No. 16 in its preseason Top 25 poll, a spot that reflects both the program’s recent breakthrough and the high expectations for the upcoming campaign.
Last season the Blue Tigers advanced to the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Division II Tournament, only to see their run halted by a 1‑0 defeat to Rogers State, the Oklahoma powerhouse that enters the new poll at No. 6.
The poll also showcases a crowded field of contenders, with Midwestern State (Texas) holding the No. 1 slot after a 19‑3‑3 record that culminated in a national championship, while Rollins College (Florida) sits at No. 2 following a 2‑0 loss in the championship game.
Lincoln is one of two Great Lakes Valley Conference teams represented in the rankings, the other being Rockhurst, which is positioned at No. 13. Maryville University is among those receiving votes but did not crack the top 25.
The Blue Tigers will begin the season with a series of exhibition matches in Kentucky, facing Cumberlands on August 15, Lindsey Wilson on August 17 and Missouri Baptist on August 19 before heading on the road.
After the Kentucky swing the team travels to take on Saginaw Valley State on August 27 and Northeastern State on August 30, setting the stage for a home debut at Illinois Springfield on September 5.
Conference play kicks in quickly, with home dates against McKendree on September 9, Southwest Baptist on September 13 and William Jewell on September 30, followed by a series of road contests against Truman State, Upper Iowa, Rockhurst and Indianapolis.
Later in the month the schedule includes additional home matchups versus Lewis on October 3, Missouri‑St. Louis on October 7, Quincy on October 18 and Missouri S&T on October 21, rounding out a demanding autumn.