Soccer

Ohio State Women’s Soccer Poised for Another Deep Run in 2026

Preseason expectations highlight returning stars Amanda Schlueter, Ava Bramblett and Ava Greco as the Buckeyes target a fifth‑place finish and a seventh straight NCAA tournament appearance.

Building on a Historic Streak

Ohio State’s women’s soccer squad has become a fixture in the national conversation, having secured six straight NCAA Tournament berths and breaking through to the Elite Eight for the first time since 2010. The Buckeyes finished the previous campaign with an 11‑5‑6 record and a tie for sixth in the Big Ten, a testament to a resilient roster that returns nine starters.

The upcoming schedule opens with a road test at Clemson on August 16, followed by a home doubleheader against Kansas on August 20 that will also feature the men’s soccer team. Those early fixtures set the tone for a season that coaches and fans alike anticipate will keep the program among the conference’s elite.

Key Players to Watch

Preseason predictions from the league’s 18 head coaches place Ohio State fifth in the Big Ten standings for 2026, a projection that reflects both respect for the returning core and the competitive depth of the conference. The poll underscores the belief that the Buckeyes can translate their recent success into another strong campaign.

Among the standout returnees, midfielder/forward Amanda Schlueter led the team with 11 goals and five assists last season, earning first‑team All‑Big Ten honors in her junior year. Defender Ava Bramblett, a team captain in 2025, contributed three goals and an assist while anchoring a defensive unit that helped the Buckeyes to a solid defensive record. Sophomore Ava Greco added two goals and an assist, playing every minute of the NCAA tournament run, including a full 110 minutes in the overtime victory over Notre Dame.

Coach [Name] will rely on the chemistry forged by these players, who have already demonstrated leadership both on and off the pitch. Their ability to perform under pressure was evident when Greco logged a full overtime shift against Notre Dame, a moment that epitomized the team’s gritty resolve.

Looking Ahead

As the Buckeyes prepare to step onto the field, the blend of experience, depth, and ambition promises to keep Ohio State among the top contenders in the Big Ten and beyond. The program’s trajectory suggests that the 2026 season could be another chapter in a growing legacy of excellence.

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