Minnesota State University’s women’s soccer program has once again been recognized for its academic excellence, capturing the College Team Academic Award for the 2025‑26 academic year.
The honor, announced by the United Soccer Coaches Association, underscores the team’s commitment to scholarship, posting a collective grade‑point average of 3.0 or higher.
A season of accolades
Head coach Brian Bahl, who has guided the Mavericks to the NCAA Tournament in 12 of his 13 seasons, praised the student‑athletes for balancing rigorous academics with a championship‑caliber performance on the field.
Senior defender Mila Rustin adds to the narrative by earning Preseason Defensive Player of the Year honors in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference, a testament to her defensive prowess.
The Mavericks concluded the 2025 campaign with an 18‑1‑4 record, securing their 11th NSIC championship and finishing the season ranked No. 16 nationally.
Looking ahead to 2026
Building on that momentum, the program enters 2026 as the preseason favorite in the NSIC Coaches’ Poll, with a slate of exhibition matches against Iowa Lakes Community College, Northwest Missouri State and Simpson College scheduled for August.
The regular season kicks off on August 28 with road games at Central Oklahoma before a home‑opening weekend that features a clash with Central Missouri and No. 19 Grand Valley State.
All home matches and NSIC championship events will be streamed live on Midco Sports Plus beginning this year, giving fans expanded access to the team’s pursuit of another title.