Leavenworth, Kan.— The University of Saint Mary women's soccer team enters the new season with a mix of experience and new talent, but the Spires believe one of their most important foundations is something that won't show up in a box score: togetherness.

Head Coach Justin Seever and the Spires return 12 players from last season and welcome 10 newcomers, creating a roster that will need to establish its identity quickly while embracing a culture built on playing for one another and embracing a team-first mentality.

This blended USM group enters the season with expectations already attached, as Saint Mary was picked fifth in the preseason conference poll. The ranking gives the Spires an early indication of outside expectations entering the season while adding another layer of intrigue to a roster that's excited to find its footing.

Veterans Allena Collins, Alaina Thomas, Nieves Vazquez, and Diana Aguilar—just to name a few—will be key leaders for the Spires this season, but will be part of a strong returning core that includes Litzy Mendoza, Jordan Tran, Cierra Dominick, and others who are gunning to take on larger roles. Together, the veteran players will be counted on to help establish the team's identity while allowing the newcomers to adjust to the college game.

That blend of experience and new talent could make competition throughout the roster one of the defining storylines of the preseason. The Spires welcome four transfers and six freshmen, several of whom arrive with junior-college experience and could compete for immediate playing time. The returning Spires will be responsible for setting the standard, while the newcomers will have an opportunity to push for roles and add depth at multiple positions.

The competition in goal provides perhaps the clearest example. Senior All-KCAC goalkeeper Avah Casarez started nearly every match last season and gives the Spires an experienced option, while fellow senior Angelica Quintana-Aficial and incoming freshman goalkeeper Bre'Ella DeMaranville add depth to the position. 

A challenge facing the Spires may be replacing the production of last season's leading goal scorer and two-time all-conference selection Rebecca Lord, along with fellow graduates Sadie Dipman and Kate Erpelding. Their departures leave openings in the attack and create opportunities for returning players and newcomers to establish themselves as scoring threats. Finding consistent offense could be the difference between a team that is simply competitive and one that takes a significant step forward.

The schedule will provide the Spires with opportunities to see where they stand.

USM will face home tests against Stephens College and Briar Cliff University in non-conference play, then open up with a battle on the road at Ottawa University to officially kick off the 2026 KCAC campaign.

Now in his 15^th year at the helm of Spire women's soccer, coach Seever and his squad are prepared to hit the road tomorrow, Wednesday, August 26^th as they travel to Columbia, Missouri to face off against the Stephens College Stars at 7:00 p.m.

To hear Coach Seever's full Media Day interview, please visit the Urban Edge Network.