Athens, Ohio – Coming off their historic season, the UIC women's soccer team kicks off its 2026 campaign on the road in Ohio, where they will take on the Bobcats in their season opener. The opening match of the 2026 season is set for 3:00 p.m. CT at Chessa Field. 

Livestream will be available on ESPN+, while live stats will be available on UICFlames.com. 

GAME INFORMATION
Date | Time - August 12^th | 3:00 p.m. CT
Location – Athens, Ohio / Chessa Field
Live Stream | Live Stats

HISTORY vs OHIO
Wednesday's contest will mark the first all-time meeting between the Flames and the Bobcats.

PREVIEW
The Flames are coming off a historic season after winning their first Missouri Valley Conference championship in 2025. They look to continue their success into 2026 and return to postseason action.

On Tuesday, the MVC announced its 2026 Preseason Poll. UIC was selected for third, receiving 77 points. The Drake Bulldogs led with 96 points, seven first-place votes, while the Illinois State Redbirds took second with 83 points, two first-place votes. 

Along with the team receiving a third-place ranking, senior Emmy Higgins was named to the 2026 Preseason Team. 

Ohio is coming off a 5-9-5 overall season under Head Coach Aaron Rogers, with a Mid-American Conference record of 3-4-5.

FOLLOW THE FLAMES 
For more information, fans are encouraged to visit UICFlames.com, or follow the Flames on social media through X (@UIC_WSOC and @UICFlames) and Instagram (@uic_wsoc and @uicflames).