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PULASKI, Tenn. — The University of Tennessee Southern women's soccer program has released its 2026 schedule as Head Coach Will Austin prepares for his 11th season at the helm.

The Firehawks enter the new year following an 11-6-2 record last season, including a 7-3-1 mark in Southern States Athletic Conference (SSAC) play and a trip to the SSAC Championship semifinals. Under Austin's leadership, UT Southern has continued its status as one of the premier programs in the nation. Austin, who owns the most wins and highest winning percentage in program history with a 173-31-17 (.821) record, returns a veteran coaching staff and a talented roster poised to build on that success.

Under Austin's leadership, the Firehawks have amassed five NAIA Quarterfinal appearances, two NAIA Second Round appearances, one NAIA Semifinal appearance, and captured the 2021 NAIA National Championship.

The Firehawks will rely on a strong core of returners, including first-team All-SSAC selections Millie Rayner, Mia Saum, and Kamilia Tayebi, while also welcoming an exciting group of newcomers expected to make an immediate impact.

Season Overview

UT Southern will open the 2026 campaign with an exhibition match at UAH on August 16 before officially beginning the regular season with four consecutive home matches at Grissom Pitch.

The home opener is set for August 20 against preseason No. 3 Embry-Riddle (Ariz.), followed by matchups with LSU Alexandria, No. 11 Indiana Wesleyan, and Eastern Oregon to close out the opening stretch of non-conference play.

After a brief road swing at Point University and Andrew College in early September, the Firehawks return home for a key stretch that includes matchups with Wesleyan College, Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College, and preseason No. 15 Lindsey Wilson.

Conference play ramps up late in September with SSAC opponents beginning to dot the schedule, highlighted by home contests against Blue Mountain Christian and a pivotal October slate featuring preseason No. 9 William Carey and Xavier (La.) at Grissom Pitch.

Road Tests and Postseason Push

UT Southern will be tested on the road throughout conference play with trips to Thomas University, Brewton-Parker, Dalton State, and preseason No. 13 Life University rounding out the regular season.

The SSAC Tournament is scheduled to begin October 29, with later rounds taking place in Montgomery, Alabama in early November. 

The NAIA National Championship opening rounds begin November 19, with potential advancement sites continuing through late November, including Decatur, Alabama.

Looking Ahead

With a blend of experienced leadership, proven postseason success, and emerging talent, the Firehawks will aim to take the next step in 2026 as they pursue both SSAC and national titles.

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