A New Chapter Begins
The Washington University in St. Louis women's soccer team entered the 2026 campaign atop the IWSOC/United Soccer Coaches preseason poll, a position that reflects both past triumphs and lofty expectations. Ranked No. 1, the Bears are chasing a historic third consecutive national championship, a feat that would place them alongside UC San Diego as the only programs to achieve back‑to‑back titles in the modern era.
Key Players to Watch
At the heart of the lineup are forwards Olivia Clemons and Cami Colpitts, who bring a potent mix of experience and explosiveness. Clemons, the 2025 Division III National Player of the Year, returns after a breakout season, while Colpitts contributed nine goals last year and will look to add to her tally. Between them, sophomore goalkeeper Kassidy Lanthier, who earned NCAA All‑Tournament Team honors and a UAA Honorable Mention in 2025, anchors a defense that allowed just nine goals last year and posted fifteen shutouts.
A Rigorous Road Ahead
Their quest begins on September 1, when they host Greenville at Francis Olympic Field, kickoff set for 7 p.m. The opening match marks the first of many tests as the squad travels across the country, confronting opponents ranging from UC Santa Cruz in a West Coast tournament to a slate of conference rivals that will stretch their stamina and depth. All home and conference games are streamed live on FloSports, giving fans nationwide a front‑row view of the action, while live statistics are available on washubears.com for those who want deeper insight.
Community and Legacy
Beyond the pitch, the program’s sustainability rests on the generous backing of the W Club, which provides unrestricted support for athlete development and competition. Alumni contributions and donor generosity translate into resources for training, travel and academic support, ensuring that the Bears can compete at the highest level while maintaining a holistic student‑athlete experience.
Looking Ahead
The schedule also features a series of away contests that will test the Bears’ resilience, including matches against traditional powerhouses such as Carnegie Mellon University, Rochester Institute of Technology and New York University. Each road test is an opportunity to reinforce their status as the team to beat in Division III. As the season unfolds, the Bears remain focused on translating preseason optimism into championship reality. With a blend of veteran poise, emerging talent and unwavering institutional support, the 2026 roster is poised to write another chapter in a story that has already captivated the university community.