Preseason Rankings Set the Stage
The 2026 KCAC women's soccer preseason poll was released recently, featuring input from 14 head coaches across the conference. Their votes determine the early expectations for the upcoming campaign, shaping narratives before a single match is played.
Oklahoma Wesleyan University emerged as the clear favorite, topping the chart with 169 points and securing all 13 first‑place votes. The high score underscores the team’s recent dominance and the coaches’ confidence in its roster.
Friends University followed in second place with 157 points, earning the lone remaining first‑place vote. The close margin between the top two programs suggests a competitive landscape that could shift as the season progresses.
The rest of the top five was rounded out by Kansas Wesleyan University, Tabor College and Evangel University, each receiving 131, 124 and 113 points respectively. Their placements highlight the depth of talent across the conference.
Ottawa University entered the rankings at ninth position with 88 points. The finish marks a modest rise from the previous season, when the team placed eighth in the KCAC tournament and now looks to build on that momentum.
Just ahead of the season opener, Ottawa is scheduled to travel to face Central Methodist University on August 22 at 5:30 p.m. The match will serve as the first test of the new roster and coaching adjustments.
McPherson College narrowly edged Ottawa in the poll, holding the eighth spot with 89 points. The one‑point difference reflects the fine line between the two programs as they prepare for head‑to‑head competition.
Overall, the preseason poll provides a snapshot of where each program stands entering the 2026 campaign, setting the stage for a schedule filled with potential upsets and breakthroughs.