Indiana State opens its 2026 women's soccer season with a singular exhibition match against Ball State in Muncie, Indiana. Scheduled for Thursday at 5 p.m. ET, this preseason matchup marks the start of the Sycamores' campaign under head coach Paul Lawrence. Last season, Indiana State finished with an 8-6-6 overall record and 4-2-3 in the Missouri Valley Conference, securing a playoff spot for the first time since 2021. The team welcomes back four of its top five goal scorers, led by Alex Lehnert, who dominated with nine goals and six assists in 2025. The Sycamores aim to build momentum heading into the regular season with a solid mix of returning talent and promising newcomers.

By the Numbers
  • Indiana State's 2025 record: 8-6-6 overall, 4-2-3 MVC.
  • Top scorer Alex Lehnert: 9 goals, 6 assists, leading the Valley with 24 points.
State of Play
  • Indiana State is coming off its first home MVC playoff match since 2021.
  • The team will be testing new goalkeepers, including sophomore Sofie Hansen and freshman Allie Turnbull.
What's Next

Following the exhibition against Ball State, Indiana State will focus on integrating new players before the regular season kicks off. The team's performance in this match will be crucial for assessing player dynamics and establishing a strong lineup heading into competitive play.

Bottom Line

The Sycamores are poised for a season of growth, leveraging returning talent and addressing key areas with new players. The exhibition against Ball State is a pivotal opportunity to test strategies and build team cohesion ahead of the regular season.