Alcorn Soccer Predicted Fourth in SWAC Preseason Poll

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Alcorn State soccer enters the 2026 season ranked fourth in the Southwestern Athletic Conference preseason poll, a sign of momentum from last year’s postseason performance, according to league officials.

The Braves finished sixth in the SWAC regular season last year but advanced to the semifinals of the conference tournament after a late-season surge. Head coach Ken Kabiru said the team is motivated by the recognition but remains focused on proving itself on the field.

“We know what this team is capable of when we’re playing our best soccer,” Kabiru said. “A preseason ranking is nice, but it doesn’t win you anything. We’re using it as motivation, not a finish line.”

The team will open the season at home Aug. 13 against McNeese at Key City Park in Vicksburg, Mississippi. Kabiru expressed excitement about starting on familiar ground and acknowledged the support of the home crowd.

Jackson State was named the preseason favorite, followed by Grambling State and Alabama A&M. The top-four projection places Alcorn in the upper tier of the conference, with Kabiru emphasizing the importance of facing top teams regularly to prepare for postseason success.

The poll included nine teams, with Texas Southern, Prairie View A&M, Southern, Alabama State and Arkansas-Pine Bluff rounding out the rankings. Fans can follow Alcorn State sports updates on Twitter @BravesSports, Instagram @AlcornSports, and YouTube Braves Sports Network.

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