Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (SMWC) has been ranked eighth in the 2026 River States Conference Women's Soccer Preseason Coaches' Poll, with the team receiving 17 points. West Virginia University Tech leads as the favorite with 60 points and six first-place votes. SMWC prepares for a challenging schedule, including matches against high-ranked teams and a nonconference opener against Georgetown College on August 23.

By the Numbers
  • SMWC received 17 points, ranking eighth in the poll.
  • WVU Tech led the poll with 60 points and six first-place votes.
Yes, But

While SMWC starts in a lower position, the team has the potential to surprise by challenging higher-ranked opponents during its schedule.

State of Play
  • SMWC has a road-heavy schedule, opening conference play against No. 3 IU East on October 3.
  • Home matches include key games against Midway and IU Columbus later in the month.
What's Next

The Pomeroys will first face Indiana State in a nonconference exhibition on August 19 before kicking off their regular season on August 23.

Bottom Line

SMWC's eighth-place rank sets a challenging stage, but the upcoming season offers critical opportunities for the team to prove its strength against formidable opponents.