The Longwood women's soccer team is set to open its 2026 campaign at home, welcoming Campbell to the Longwood Athletics Complex in Farmville, Virginia, on August 13 at 6 p.m.
Coach Todd Dyer, who has guided the Lancers through a decade of growth, points to the program’s strong tradition of opening victories, highlighted by a 4‑0 blanking of Alabama A&M last year that saw four goals scored in the first half.
Campbell arrives with a promising lineup, featuring junior forward Ava Kanaar and senior midfielder Zahra Fepessi, who are expected to test the Lancers' defense. The Camels, who finished the previous season with a 4‑7‑5 record and were projected fifth in the CAA South Division, bring a mix of experience and youthful talent.
Among Longwood’s standouts is Sam Fischer, who earned Big South Preseason Forward of the Year honors after leading the team in goals and points last season. He will be joined by a core group of returners — including Peyton Curney, Meghan Piazza, Coryn Silberstein and Berni Wayland — who were all named to the Big South Top Returners Watch List.
Coach Dyer announced a leadership group for the season, naming Peyton Curney, Coryn Silberstein, Meghan Piazza and Madison Fitzpatrick as captains, a decision that underscores the team’s blend of veteran savvy and emerging talent.
The match also marks a chapter in a long‑standing series; Campbell currently leads the all‑time matchup 10‑5‑3, with the Lancers’ last series win coming in 2021, a 1‑0 victory on home soil.
A historic rivalry rekindled
Looking ahead, Longwood will travel to Norfolk to face Old Dominion on August 19, a game that adds another layer to the schedule as the Monarchs hold a 4‑0‑0 edge in the series.