While Baylor Soccer must replace five starters in 2026, three returning veterans form the backbone of Michelle Lenard’s reload. These leaders in key positions are undeniable in their skill and importance to their team, and they should have an outsized effect on the Bears this fall.
Goalkeeper #1 Azul Alvarez
The graduate goalkeeper has given up just 40 goals in 43 games with a save percentage of 83.2% across the last two seasons. That puts her firmly in the top 40 nationally and top 10 among power conference keepers just by the numbers. With two full years as the starter under her belt, the new pieces in Baylor’s defense — of which there are many — will have an absolute rock behind them to stop shots and help keep the back line organized.
Midfielder #4 Olivia Hess
As a freshman in 2025, Hess started all 23 games, averaging 80 minutes per game and scoring three goals with two assists. To step right into an NCAA Tournament team and become a staple in the No. 8 role is no small accomplishment, and I don’t think I pointed that out enough last season. Heading into 2026, Hess looks poised to take a step up from great in her role to being the master of the whole midfield. Through the spring, Coach Lenard noted that Hess has gotten stronger and improved the physical side of her game to take her to the next level when it comes to winning challenges.
Outside Back #3 Natalie Vatter
In my review of last season, I called Vatter “The Machine”. And as much as the moniker fits her consistent, relentless, high-level play, it might have kept people from understanding the broader impact the Colorado native has on her team. Yes, she will run further and faster than almost anyone else on the field, but there is rarely a time when Michelle Lenard fails to bring up the quality of the defender’s leadership and personality. That leadership might end up being what helps the Bears’ defense integrate four new starters without a big letdown from last season.
If these three are healthy through the year, the Bears should have a high floor. It is no coincidence that they each play more defensive roles (except Hess in a true 50/50 spot). The leadership, consistency, and ability they each bring to the table should lead the Bears back to the NCAA tournament despite the five new starters alongside them.
But there are plenty of other players that will have major roles to play for Baylor Soccer in 2026, so we will get to them in the next couple of weeks. Look out for articles on the “Top 3 Newcomers” and “Top 3 Under the Radar Players” among other preseason pieces, as we continue the countdown to the August 12th season opener at Arkansas!
