The Southeastern Louisiana University women's soccer team has returned to Strawberry Stadium for the start of fall preparations, gearing up for the 2026 season. Ranked sixth in the Southland Conference preseason polls, the Lions carry 65 points into the new year, just one point behind fifth‑placed Stephen F. Austin.
A fresh look for the Lions
Head coach Nathan Gillespie praised the squad's chemistry, noting that the blend of returning veterans and newcomers has accelerated during the summer break. 'We have a lot of maturity in the freshman class, and the experience that transfers like Shae Kuntz bring adds depth we haven't had in recent years,' Gillespie said.
Returning starter Kendall Curran will again anchor the backline as team captain. In 2025 she started all 18 matches, logging 1,620 minutes and making 94 saves, numbers that have set a benchmark for the upcoming roster.
Up front, leading scorer Alexandra Knight returns after netting four goals last season, while freshman forward Aja Nelson arrives with three goals already to her name. Their combined threat should give the Lions a more diversified attack.
The 2026 roster also welcomes nine fresh faces, including four freshmen and five transfers. Among them, Shae Kuntz brings prior collegiate experience that Gillespie believes will help the team adapt quickly to the rigors of conference play.
The season will open at home against Louisiana‑Lafayette on August 13 at 7 p.m., a match that will be streamed live on ESPN+. The early non‑conference schedule is designed to test the team's depth before diving into Southland competition.
Preseason polls place Northwestern State at the top with 96 points, followed by East Texas A&M with 76, while Lamar and Houston Christian are tied for third with 74 each. With Stephen F. Austin just ahead of the Lions, the coaching staff sees a clear path to climbing the standings.