The University of Tennessee at Martin announced its 2026 men's soccer schedule this week, a blend of regional rivals, historic foes and new challenges that head coach Mike Varga says is intended to sharpen the Skyhawks before they enter Ohio Valley Conference play.
A demanding non‑conference slate
The season will open with two home exhibition games against Arkansas State and Northwest Mississippi Community College on August 5 and August 8, giving the team a chance to build chemistry in front of local fans.
Their first true test comes on the road against Chattanooga on August 12, followed by a historic first meeting with Chicago State on August 16, a matchup that promises fresh storylines for the program.
Varga emphasized that the schedule is designed to test the squad both at home and on the road, preparing them for the rigors of conference competition.
The non‑conference slate includes five former OVC opponents — Middle Tennessee, Belmont and Jacksonville State — while home fixtures also feature Lindenwood, Morehead State and Southeast Missouri later in the season.
Road trips will take the Skyhawks to Illinois State, Marshall, Central Arkansas and Southern Illinois, adding a geographic spread that broadens their competitive exposure.
Conference play is slated to begin on September 27 at Southern Indiana, after which UT Martin will host Lindenwood, Morehead State and Southeast Missouri in a series of home league matches.
The 2026 OVC Women's Soccer Championship is scheduled for early November, running from the 7th through the 15th at campus sites, underscoring the university's broader soccer footprint.
Overall, the schedule reflects a strategic effort to blend experience with new challenges, setting the stage for a competitive season ahead.