The University of North Alabama soccer team is set to kick off the 2026 season with an away game against East Tennessee State University (ETSU) on August 12 at 5 p.m. This matchup marks the second meeting between the two teams, following last season's narrow 1-0 defeat for the Lions. North Alabama looks to secure its first victory against the Buccaneers, who are also preseason ranked second in the Southern Conference. The game will feature live stats and a broadcast available on ESPN+.

By the Numbers
  • Last season, North Alabama finished with an 8-5-6 record and made it to the ASUN Postseason Tournament.
  • Madison Vukas set the Division I saves record with 111 saves and a goals against average of .624.
State of Play
  • The Lions were ranked second in the newly-formed United Athletic Conference, with three players earning preseason honors.
  • Adelyn Speight was named Preseason UAC Defensive Player of the Year, a first for North Alabama in the Division I era.
What's Next

Following their match against the Buccaneers, the Lions will head to Asheville, N.C. to face UNC Asheville on August 15, marking the first encounter between the two programs.

Bottom Line

The Lions aim to set a strong precedent for the season by securing a victory against ETSU, potentially building on last year鈥檚 defensive strengths to improve their competitive standing in the conference.