The Francis Marion University women's soccer team is receiving votes in the NCAA Division II Top 25 preseason rankings. Head coach Sam Holmes returns 24 players, including 10 starters, from last year's 17-3-0 championship team. Notable returnees include All-Americans Tehya Dave', Erin Grabeel, and Alana Hunt, contributing to a strong squad known for its defensive prowess and offensive firepower. FMU is set to kick off its season on August 27 at home against USC Aiken, while also facing two ranked opponents this season.

By the Numbers
  • FMU ended the 2025 season with a record of 17-3-0.
  • Tehya Dave' ranked 12th in NCAA Division II with 34 points (13 goals, 8 assists).
  • Erin Grabeel recorded 14 shutouts, ranking third in the nation.
State of Play
  • The Patriots were ranked in the United Soccer Coaches poll for the final eight weeks of the 2025 season.
  • The team faces two of the top 13 ranked opponents this season: Lenoir-Rhyne (8th) and Catawba College (13th).
What's Next

FMU will look to leverage its veteran presence and depth in the upcoming season, aiming to secure a strong position in the NCAA tournament once again. The performance against ranked opponents early in the season could significantly impact their standings and poll votes.

Bottom Line

The FMU women's soccer team is in a strong position to make another NCAA tournament run, backed by a solid roster and previous successes, making them a contender to watch this season.