The Bearcat women's soccer team at Southwest Baptist University is gearing up for a transformative 2026 season under new head coach Debbie Pekel. Pekel, previously from Spartanburg Methodist College, aims to build upon the team's existing talents while introducing fresh strategies. Among returning key players are goalkeeper Cece Alexander, known for her impressive 104 saves last season, and scoring contributors Annabelle Shuler, Addi Shuler, and Lydia Fickle, who are eager to enhance their offensive impact. The Lady Bearcats will kick off their season on August 27 against the University of the Ozarks and are poised to make significant strides in their conference play this fall.

By the Numbers
  • Cece Alexander recorded 104 saves last season, ranking sixth all-time at SBU with 199 career saves.
  • Tamerra Gantt, leading scorer from 2025, scored eight goals and provided three assists.
State of Play
  • New coach Debbie Pekel takes the helm, aiming to revitalize the program with her previous coaching successes.
  • Key returners like Cece Alexander and the Shuler sisters are expected to play critical roles in the upcoming season.
What's Next

The Bearcats' season opener on August 27 will set the tone for their ambitions, and early match performances will be crucial in establishing team dynamics and confidence moving into conference play in early September.

Bottom Line

As the Bearcats embark on this new chapter, the blend of seasoned leadership and fresh talent under Pekel's guidance presents a pivotal opportunity for growth and success in 2026.