The University of Missouri’s women’s soccer program has not tasted the NCAA tournament since the 2020 season, a drought that has lingered through five coaching tenures. Head coach Stefanie Golan, now in her sixth year, has kept the conversation alive, emphasizing that the team is closer than ever to ending the wait.
A New Era of Optimism
A 4‑10‑3 record in 2025 left the Tigers with a negative goal differential of 1.7 per game and just 15 goals scored, placing them near the bottom of the Southeastern Conference. Yet the preseason schedule offered glimpses of progress: in a recent exhibition against Lindenwood the side netted two goals within the opening ten minutes, hinting at a more potent attack.
Golan has built the upcoming campaign around a blend of experience and fresh talent. The senior class, led by forward Riley Wilkerson and midfielder Brianna Buels, has embraced a mindset of incremental growth, while a highly touted freshman cohort adds depth. Wilkerson said the squad wants to “prove Mizzou’s identity and represent the program strongly,” and Buels called a postseason berth “a defining moment” for the team.
Training sessions have been marked by an extended preseason, with players maintaining high energy and a focus on offensive pressure. The coaching staff has delineated specific zones and roles to create consistent scoring chances, aiming to translate the early‑game bursts into sustained threat throughout matches.
The 2026 season opens against Western Kentucky on August 13 at 7 p.m., a match that will serve as the first test of Golan’s revised approach. If the Tigers can convert their improved offensive patterns into wins, the November postseason race could finally materialize, ending a six‑year absence that has hung over the program.