The Southeastern Louisiana University women's soccer team has returned to Strawberry Stadium for fall preseason preparations as it builds toward the 2026 campaign. Ranked sixth in the Southland Conference preseason poll with 65 points, the Lions sit just one point behind fifth‑placed Stephen F. Austin, setting the stage for a competitive year.
Preseason Momentum
Head coach Nathan Gillespie, now in his fifth year, praised the squad's cohesion and the rapid adaptation of nine newcomers after a productive summer break. He highlighted the maturity of the freshmen and the experience brought by transfer Shae Kuntz, noting that the group has already begun to click on the training ground.
Returning talent anchors the roster. Goalkeeper and captain Kendall Curran will again guard the net after starting all 18 matches in 2025, finishing with 94 saves and 1,620 minutes of play. Up front, striker Alexandra Knight, who contributed four goals last season, returns alongside freshman Aja Nelson, who tallied three goals as a true freshman. Both players impressed Gillespie with their early performances.
The season will open at home against Louisiana‑Lafayette on Thursday, August 13 at 7 p.m., a match that will be streamed live on ESPN+. Fans are being urged to fill Strawberry Stadium to give the Lions a strong start.
Last season the team finished 6‑8‑4 overall and 5‑3‑2 in conference play, a record that Gillespie believes can improve with the depth added from the offseason. With a blend of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, the program aims to climb higher than its sixth‑place preseason standing.