UCLA Women's Soccer Announces 2026 Season Opener
UCLA’s women’s soccer program will begin the 2026 season on August 12 with a rematch against BYU, marking the first meeting of the new era under head coach Gof Boyoko. The matchup promises a fresh test for a squad that reached the second round of the 2025 NCAA Tournament and returns a core group of veterans.
The Bruins will then welcome Duke to campus on August 16 and close the early stretch with a home game against San Diego on August 20. In total, UCLA will face nine opponents that participated in last year’s NCAA Tournament, setting a challenging but exciting slate for the coaching staff and players.
Returning Core and New Additions
Returning from the 2025 roster are 14 players, including All‑Conference selections Kara Croone and Paloma Daubert, as well as Big Ten Freshman honorees Daphne Nakfoor and Grace Shank. Nicki Fraser, the 2024 Big Ten Freshman of the Year, also returns, bolstering the midfield.
The team has augmented its lineup through the transfer portal, adding experienced contributors such as Marli Galdamez and Cate Sarinopoulos from TCU, while also welcoming fresh talent like Mia Corona, Bela Araujo and Anaiya Miyazato. Coach Boyoko’s recruiting class features U‑17 National Team members from four countries, underscoring the program’s growing momentum.
Big Ten competition kicks off on September 10 with a home match against Purdue, and the Bruins aim to build on their 12‑5‑4 record from the previous season. With a blend of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, the 2026 schedule positions UCLA to contend for another deep tournament run.