The University of North Alabama soccer squad will step onto the field in Johnson City on August 12, 2026, for the first contest of the 2026 season, a 5 p.m. kickoff against East Tennessee State University.
Key Players to Watch
Reagan Fitzgerald, who led ETSU with nine goals and five assists last year, headlines a Bucs attack that also includes Ella Parker and Georgia Shields, both named to the SoCon Preseason All‑Conference Team.
On the defensive side, Madison Vukas earned ASUN Goalkeeper of the Year honors and set Division I records for saves and goals‑against average, while Adelyn Speight was crowned Preseason UAC Defensive Player of the Year, the first Lion to receive the award in UNA’s Division I history.
A Familiar Rivalry
The Lions fell 1‑0 in their only previous meeting, a loss in Florence last season that was decided by a corner kick from Grace Eatz that found Fitzgerald’s head in the 19th minute, followed by a red card to defender McKlain Jones late in the game.
Coach hopes the road victory will set the tone for the remainder of the schedule, especially as the team prepares to travel to UNC Asheville on August 15 for its next matchup.