ST. LOUIS, Mo. - Spalding University women's soccer snagged first in the 2026 St Louis Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SLIAC) preseason coaches poll, the league announced Thursday.

Coming off of a historic 2025 season, Spalding Women's Soccer, the reigning SLIAC Champs, were picked first in the poll with 60 points and six first place votes. Head Coach Jordan Vejar brings back a solid core, as well as adding some new faces to the roster. Vejar commented; "We have a lot of confidence in the group that we have this fall. They are made up of a very experienced and talented group of returners, and very eager and skilled newcomers. It's going to be a fun journey, and we hope to continue to build on the momentum they've created as a program while also making sure we stayed grounded in all of the special small moments that come within a season. It's a strong conference with amazing coaches and players, and we're eager to compete again this fall to the best of our abilities." when asked about the upcoming season. 

The 2026 SLIAC Women's Soccer Tournament will begin October 31st.

2026 SLIAC Women's Soccer Preseason Poll
#1 Spalding - 60 (6)
#2 Greenville - 56 (2)
#3 Webster - 52 (1)
#4 Westminster - 44
#5 Principia - 34
#6 Lyon - 31
#7 Blackburn - 19
#8 MUW - 17
#9 Eureka - 11

Read the full SLIAC release, HERE!