OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma City opens the women's soccer season on Thursday with a returning lineup that stirs optimism.
 
The Stars were 14-3-2 last season and bring back their top three goal-scorers and top two playmakers. 2025 Sooner Athletic Conference Newcomer of the Year Kayleigh Haygood returns after leading the Stars with nine assists and sharing the goals scored lead with Amelia Horsford at 12.
 
Horsford also returns along with Yami Ponce, who had 11 goals, and Reese Roberts, who was second with seven assists.
 
Candela Blanco is back in goal after registering 11 shutouts and a 0.54 goals-allowed average.
 
Among those returners, Head Coach Billy Martin said he expects Roberts and Ponce to be team leaders.
 
Also returning are defenders Alyssa Schuerch, keeper Gemma Harvey, midfielders Dylan Harned, Devin Jansing, Kyrie Soto and Wachipi Hamelryck; and forwards Ali Daugherty and Ryan Brooks.
 
A dozen newcomers join the squad this year, including transfers Emma Blomberg, Karima Marhabi, Louyse Souza, Maria Lopez, Jade Flower, Makinlee Selph and Avrianna Martino. The freshman class adds Addison Alred, Maliyah Smith, Anna Steenbekkers, Austin Clift and Mackenzie Lehnus to the mix.
 
"We feel like all the newcomers can have an impact this season," said Martin. "Emma Blomberg, Maliyah Smith and Addison Alred have looked very good this preseason."
 
This year's edition of the Stars will rely on its speed.
 
"For the past three or four years, we have been improving our overall team speed and athleticism," said Martin.
 
OCU's 2026 combo of experience and talent should take the team a long way. The Stars are picked to finish third in the SAC behind John Brown and USAO. That finish would be a disappointment to the team.
 
"With the strength of our returners and the strong recruiting class, they understand the urgency to win a SAC title," Martin said. "Their work rate and commitment will be seen every game."
 
The Stars open the season at 5 p.m. on Thursday with Our Lady of the Lake visiting.