KU soccer hungry for more success ahead of season opener

LAWRENCE (KSNT) - Kansas soccer isn’t sneaking up on anyone this year.

The defending Big 12 Tournament champions held its annual media day on Monday, entering the 2025 season as No. 5 in the conference coaches poll, the program’s first top-five preseason spot since 2015.

After last year’s late-season surge to capture the tournament crown, head coach Nate Lie says his team’s mindset hasn't shifted and knows his squad can push to new heights.

"We return a lot of firepower, and I'd be very disappointed if we didn't score more goals this year and weren't considered a dangerous team," Lie said. "My bet is that if we buy in and we see the best version of this team, we'll be even more effective."

The Jayhawks return a core group that fueled its championship run, blending experience with promising young talent. That balance, combined with the confidence from last fall, has the locker room buzzing about the possibilities ahead.

"Last year doesn't matter to us," sophomore midfielder Jillian Gregorski said. "We're focused on improving and stepping up our standards."

The Jayhawks know this group can raise the bar again—and not just in conference play.

"Getting a taste of that championship makes you really excited for what's to come next," redshirt-junior forward Saige Wimes said. "I know what we're capable of and excited to see what we do this season."

KU opens its 2025 campaign on Thursday (8/11) against Missouri State. Kickoff from Lawrence is set for 7:00 p.m.