Marshall University’s men’s soccer program has unveiled its 2026 campaign, a schedule that blends tradition with ambition. The announcement, made by head coach Chris Grassie, highlights a nine‑game home slate at Hoops Family Field and underscores the team’s recent dominance, including a .837 win rate at home since 2019 and back‑to‑back College Spring League titles.
Homecoming Derby Returns
A marquee matchup will see the Mountaineers renew the Mountain State Derby with West Virginia University on Homecoming weekend, slated for September 27. The rivalry game will anchor the home schedule and draw heightened attention from fans across the region.
The regular season opens at home on August 20 against Fairfield, kicking off a stretch that will also feature contests versus VCU, Utah Valley and Eastern Illinois before the derby. Additional home opponents include Georgia Southern, James Madison University and a final showdown with Old Dominion on November 3, each set for a 7:15 p.m. kickoff.
A Busy Road Ahead
Before the derby, the team will travel to face opponents in locations ranging from South Orange, New Jersey, to Santa Barbara, California, and from Fairfax, Virginia, to Lexington, Kentucky. The itinerary also includes stops in Charleston, Illinois; Orlando, Florida; Greensboro, North Carolina; and Columbia, South Carolina, before the season concludes on home turf.
Coach Grassie emphasized the program’s momentum, noting the seven consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances and the recent championship streak as evidence of sustained excellence. The 2026 schedule, he said, is designed to capitalize on that momentum while providing competitive challenges across the nation.