Warriors Ready for a Historic Opener
The ULM Warhawks are gearing up for a marquee moment as they open their 2026 campaign at home against Alcorn State on August 16, a date that marks the first home opener since 2004 and the first non‑conference tie since the 2023 season.
The kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. at Brown Stadium in Monroe, Louisiana, a venue that has become a fortress for the team, having hosted a 10‑game home winning streak that dates back to October 31, 2024.
Alcorn State enters the match after a 5‑8‑4 record in 2025 and is projected to finish fourth in the SWAC, but the Warhawks will be looking to extend their dominance against a side that boasts preseason accolades for midfielder Annick Zouma, named the conference’s Preseason Midfielder of the Year.
The Warhawks will field a refreshed lineup that includes 11 returning players from the 2025 roster, among them two all‑conference honorees. Notable returnees such as Giulia Franco, Ines de Lope Casanova, Lucia Gomez and Bernadett Stefan bring experience, while fresh faces like Jade Bowé, Maria Heuman and Jenni Huttunen have been added under Coach Antony Blackburn.
Adding to the story, Victoria Vinals struck the program’s first collegiate goal in the season opener at Little Rock, scoring in the 80th minute and underscoring the offensive potential of the squad.
Looking ahead, the Warhawks will travel to Denton, Texas, to meet North Texas on August 20, a test that could further cement their early‑season momentum.