The Sun Belt Conference unveiled its 2026 preseason women's soccer squad, spotlighting Louisiana’s midfield star Miku Kurihara as the league’s Midfielder of the Year and freshman sensation Carson Glenn as the Freshman of the Year.
Preseason Honors
Kurihara, who tallied seven goals and two assists during the 2025 campaign, was lauded for her impact, highlighted by a six‑goal haul in an 8‑0 victory over Troy that marked the sixth hat trick in school history. Her 14 points placed her second in the conference for goals and points.
Freshman Carson Glenn, also from Louisiana, earned first‑team All‑Sun Belt honors and was named the 2025 Freshman of the Year after leading the team with 17 points, 57 shots and three game‑winning goals, while posting a career‑high 24 shots on goal.
The preseason poll, compiled from the votes of 14 head coaches, positioned Louisiana at seventh overall with 171 points, trailing Old Dominion (173) and South Alabama (171) but still reflecting a strong conference outlook. James Madison topped the rankings with three All‑Conference selections and 182 points.
The upcoming championship will be staged in Foley, Alabama, from November 9 through 14 at the Foley Sports Tourism Complex, marking the 11th straight year the event has been hosted in the city.
Conference officials emphasized that the selections underscore the growing competitiveness of women's soccer in the league, with multiple programs showcasing standout talent ahead of the season.