Pirates Open Season with Promise Against NCAA Opponent

The 2025–26 season marks a fresh chapter for the Pirates, who enter the year with a youthful roster featuring only a few returning sophomores and a strong class of incoming freshmen. Building on last season's milestone of reaching the National Tournament, the program begins this campaign with high expectations, tremendous potential, and plenty of room for growth.

The focus this season is on developing team chemistry while maintaining the relentless work ethic that has already been evident in preseason training.

On August 7, the Pirates faced NCAA Division I opponent Nicholls State University in their first preseason match. The opening minutes served as an adjustment period, as the players worked to find rhythm alongside new teammates. Nicholls capitalized early, scoring the first goal of the match.

Despite the early setback, the Pirates continued to battle. Nicholls added a second goal before halftime, but the momentum shifted when winger Gracie Savoie found the back of the net, injecting energy and confidence into the squad.

In the second half, fatigue became a factor, allowing Nicholls to score a third goal. However, the Pirates responded with resilience, creating more scoring opportunities and showing signs of growing cohesion.

The match ended 3–1 in favor of Nicholls State, but the experience proved invaluable for the Pirates. With talent, determination, and time on their side, this young team is poised to learn, adapt, and raise their standards even higher as the season unfolds.