Micala Boex has been honored as the 2026 Big Sky Preseason Most Valuable Player, while the Northern Arizona soccer team is projected to finish fourth in the league's preseason poll. NAU secured 60 points, trailing Idaho's 70 and Utah Tech's 63. Weber State leads the poll with 74 points and five first-place votes, indicating a competitive race for the NCAA Tournament bid. Boex, a standout player from Aurora, Colorado, is returning for her third season after a strong previous year, where she tallied eight goals and six assists. The Lumberjacks have a track record of success under head coach Alan Berrios, making the conference tournament each year since his arrival.

By the Numbers
  • NAU secured 60 points in the preseason poll.
  • Boex led the team with 8 goals, 6 assists, and 22 points last season.
State of Play
  • NAU has qualified for the Big Sky Championships every year under Coach Berrios.
  • The top six teams will qualify for the 2026 championships in Missoula, Montana from Nov. 11-15.
What's Next

The Lumberjacks will commence their season with two exhibition matches this week and begin regular season play on August 12 against UC Riverside. Their first home match is set for August 23 against UC San Diego.

Bottom Line

With Boex leading a talented squad, NAU is poised for a strong season, maintaining momentum from their consistent tournament appearances and aiming for a spot in the NCAA Tournament.