LSU Soccer will begin its 2026 campaign on the road, traveling to Winston‑Salem for a 7 p.m. CT kickoff against Wake Forest on August 12. The matchup pits the Tigers, who enter the season ranked 16th in the nation and fourth in the SEC, against an 18th‑ranked Demon Deacons squad that finished last season with a 1‑0 victory over LSU.
A Program on the Rise
The foundation for this year’s optimism lies in the program’s recent trajectory. In 2025 LSU posted a 15‑6‑4 record, advanced to the NCAA Sweet 16 and secured five consecutive NCAA Tournament berths under head coach Sian Hudson, now in his seventh season at the helm.
Returning core players give the Tigers continuity and experience. Senior co‑captains Kelsey Major and Ava Galligan, together with junior vice‑captain Ava Amsden and sophomore Sariyah Bailey, are back after contributing to the 2025 run. Galligan earned First Team All‑SEC honors, leading the team with 11 goals and four assists.
Building a Diverse Roster
The 2026 roster blends 27 veterans with new transfers such as Henley Tippins and Taylor Maxwell, adding depth across midfield and attack. Coach Hudson has emphasized competition for spots, noting that the mix of returning talent and fresh faces will shape the team’s approach to a demanding non‑conference slate.
The Tigers’ early schedule includes contests against Northwestern State, UCF, Florida Gulf Coast, Arizona State, Arizona and Baylor before conference play begins. The SEC opener is slated for September 11 against Tennessee, a game that will test the team’s readiness for league competition.
Beyond the field, the program is supported by LSU Athletics and broadcast on the ACC Network, while the university’s broader athletic infrastructure continues to grow. Fans can expect a vibrant atmosphere at Spry Stadium as the team looks to translate early momentum into a strong SEC campaign.