The University of Pittsburgh's women's soccer program has released its 2026 schedule, a slate that blends home‑field comfort with a gauntlet of national powerhouses.
A schedule that tests and inspires
Nine of the team's 18 regular‑season contests will be played at Ambrose Urbanic Field, beginning with a season‑opening showdown against Youngstown State on August 12.
The schedule features marquee road trips to Durham, Tallahassee, Winston‑Salem, Notre Dame, Blacksburg, Syracuse, Raleigh, Dallas, Liberty, Dayton, Ithaca and a West Coast swing that includes stops in Los Angeles and Santa Clara.
Head coach Ben Waldrum, now in his second year after guiding the Panthers to a historic 1‑0 victory over No. 1 Notre Dame in 2025, says the lineup is designed to sustain that momentum.
Returning 17 players from the 2025 roster, including defenders Sophie Rourke and Olivia Lee, give the team continuity, while forward Katie Ellermeyer, who led the scoring last season, heads a talented attacking group.
The incoming class blends elite freshman talent with experienced transfers, adding depth and versatility as the Panthers look to compete against the likes of Duke, Florida State, Wake Forest and Notre Dame.
In addition to the regular season, Pitt will stage exhibition matches against Rutgers and West Virginia to fine‑tune its lineup before the first official game.
Game times for all 2026 contests will be announced in the coming weeks, but the excitement is already building as fans anticipate another compelling campaign for the Panthers.