BG Volleyball Releases 2026 Non-Conference Schedule, Including Ohio State
Bowling Green State University’s women’s volleyball team unveiled its 2026 non-conference schedule on Monday, June 15, 2025, featuring high-profile matchups against Ohio State and other Power Five programs. The release, confirmed by the university’s athletics department, marks the first official details of the team’s preparation for the upcoming season.
Key Non-Conference Opponents
The schedule includes 10 non-conference games, with Ohio State standing out as a marquee opponent. The Falcons will also face Purdue, Kent State, and Western Michigan, according to the released schedule. These contests aim to test the team against diverse styles of play ahead of Mid-American Conference (MAC) competition.
How the Schedule Shapes the 2026 Season
The non-conference slate is designed to build momentum for the Falcons, who finished 18-13 in the 2024 season. Head coach Kristin Kehoe emphasized the importance of early-season challenges in a statement shared by the athletics department. “Playing teams like Ohio State and Purdue will push our players to elevate their game,” Kehoe said.
Historical Context and Conference Implications
Bowling Green’s decision to include multiple Power Five opponents reflects a broader trend among mid-major programs seeking to boost their NCAA Tournament resumes. The MAC has seen increased competition in recent years, with teams like Buffalo and Ohio State regularly competing at a high level. This schedule could position the Falcons as a dark horse in the 2026 conference race.
What’s Next for the Falcons?
The team’s full 2026 schedule, including MAC matchups, will be released later this year. Fans can expect updates from the athletics department, which has historically provided detailed breakdowns of upcoming games. The non-conference matches will serve as a critical benchmark for the Falcons’ progress under Kehoe.
Why This Schedule Matters
The inclusion of Ohio State and other Power Five teams highlights Bowling Green’s strategy to gain national exposure. A 2023 report by the NCAA noted that mid-major programs with robust non-conference schedules saw a 15% increase in fan engagement. For the Falcons, these games could also impact their seeding in the 2026 NCAA Tournament.
Comparison to Previous Seasons
In 2024, Bowling Green faced six non-conference teams, including two from the Big Ten. The 2026 schedule expands that number, reflecting a shift toward more competitive early-season tests. This aligns with the MAC’s efforts to strengthen its national profile, as seen in the conference’s recent partnerships with major programs.
FAQ
When is the full 2026 schedule released?
The complete schedule, including MAC games, will be announced later in 2025.
How does this schedule affect the NCAA Tournament?
A strong non-conference record can improve a team’s resume, but the MAC’s competitive nature means postseason success will depend on conference play.
Where can I find the schedule?
The full schedule will be available on the Bowling Green athletics website and the NCAA’s official volleyball page.
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