Southern Utah University women's soccer prepares to begin its first season in the Big Sky Conference in less than two weeks, entering the new campaign with upgraded facilities and an experienced defensive core. The program's transition to the new conference follows significant facility enhancements implemented throughout the offseason to improve the student-athlete and fan experience.
Defensive Strength and Goalkeeping Competition
As the 2026 season approaches, Southern Utah head coach Steven Lindquist expects the team's backline to be a primary driver of the program's success. Lindquist noted that the defensive unit is prepared to do more than simply defend, intending to act as the team's quarterbacks by organizing the pitch, communicating, and maintaining possession to initiate attacks.
The defensive unit features a returning core of Rylan Tebbs, Brooklyn Bradley, and Nao Yasuda, who will be joined by freshman Ashlyn Woodbury. This veteran group is tasked with building the game from the back, a philosophy intended to dictate the tempo of matches rather than merely absorbing opponent pressure.
One of the most intense competitions heading into the season is occurring in the goalkeeper position. Lindquist reported that the competition remains high due to a mix of experienced returners, a talented transfer, and a promising newcomer. The group vying for the starting role includes returners Kaitlin Bustos, Madi Ejgird, and Phoebe Knisley, alongside freshman Tatum Trout, who arrived from Southern California.
Midfield and Forward Dynamics
The midfield is expected to serve as the team's heartbeat, according to Lindquist, connecting the defensive and attacking thirds while managing transition moments. The unit features returning All-WAC Freshman Team honorees Dakota Hansen and Sicily Clark. They will be joined by LMU transfer Emma Depailler, who Lindquist noted possesses a powerful left foot and high soccer IQ, and returning player Sophia Memory, who is returning to the lineup after a season sidelined by injury.
In the attacking third, the Thunderbirds' offense will be led by returning forward Kayleigh Acree. Lindquist described Acree as a significant offensive threat following a breakout spring performance characterized by high pace and the ability to stretch defenses.
Joining Acree is freshman Gracen Blieschke, a two-footed striker who is expected to complement Acree's speed with high technical ability. The coaching staff also anticipates the arrival of Miley Grigg, a forward from Australia and former teammate of Blieschke, who is expected to add significant depth to the attacking unit once she arrives on campus.
Facility Upgrades and Program Evolution
The move to the Big Sky Conference coincides with a period of significant investment in the program's infrastructure. Throughout the offseason, the university implemented several upgrades at the Thunderbird Soccer Field to enhance the matchday atmosphere and student-athlete experience.
Key improvements include the installation of new Olympic-style soccer goals and a new scoreboard to provide an upgraded viewing experience for fans. The field perimeter has also been updated with new windscreen on the fencing to reduce wind interference. Additionally, the program has installed new covered team benches for player and coach comfort.
To support tactical development, the program has invested in a permanent high-definition camera system. This system allows the coaching staff to film every practice and match from an elevated angle, providing video for scouting, recruiting, and player evaluation. Lindquist, who previously served on the coaching staff before becoming head coach, stated these upgrades will positively impact training and the ability to recruit outstanding players.
Program Foundation
Program Foundation
The current era of Southern Utah women's soccer is built upon a foundation established during previous seasons. While the 2026 season marks a new chapter in the Big Sky Conference, the program's recent history includes significant growth in both personnel and facilities.
