The 2026 girls soccer season is already giving West Michigan fans plenty to talk about. Rivalry games, strong non-conference matchups, and the start of West Michigan Conference play have made for an exciting opening stretch. A cold, blustery lakeshore night added to the atmosphere, making every run, touch, and goal feel even bigger. Teams like Spring Lake, Fruitport, Western Michigan Christian, Fremont, Oakridge, Reeths-Puffer, and North Muskegon are already showing their identity, and the first few weeks have offered an early glimpse at who could be in the mix this spring.
Spring Lake edges Fruitport in a strong early rivalry test
One of the best early matchups featured Spring Lake’s 1-0 win over Fruitport in a tightly contested rivalry game. It was the kind of match that showed both teams are capable of playing meaningful soccer deep into the season.
Spring Lake broke through in the second half when Baylee Andree scored the game’s lone goal with 33:41 remaining. That finish stood up in a match defined by structure, defensive pressure, and limited chances.
Even in defeat, Fruitport gave plenty of reasons for optimism. The Trojans were much sharper defensively than they had been earlier in the week, held their shape well, and stayed in the game throughout. Senior goalkeeper Ava Powell delivered a standout effort with 10 saves, while the back line of Izzy Hanson-Wilbur, Kaylynn Pavlige, Ava VanVeenelan, and Violet Olinghouse turned in a strong collective performance.
Fruitport also had chances to change the outcome, including a penalty kick late in the first half and other second-half opportunities that just would not fall. For Spring Lake, it was the kind of close win that reinforces its reputation as a disciplined, dangerous team. For Fruitport, it was a loss that still showed growth against a quality opponent.
Fremont opens West Michigan Conference play in dominant fashion
Fremont made one of the loudest statements of the week, rolling past Oakridge 8-0 to open West Michigan Conference play. The story was Esther Vissia, who scored the first four goals of the game and completely changed the tone from the opening whistle. Fremont controlled possession throughout and overwhelmed Oakridge with a 20-0 advantage in shots.
After Vissia’s four-goal burst, Maddie Mater, Anna Norris, Makenna Scott, and Roxy Martin all added goals to complete the rout. For Fremont, it was a major bounce-back performance and an ideal way to begin conference action. For Oakridge, it was a difficult opener, but the Eagles will have more chances to regroup as league play continues.
Other Scores:
- North Muskegon 3, Calvin Christian 0
- Western Michigan Christian 1, Spring Lake 1
- Cedar Springs 2, Reeths-Puffer 0
- Fremont 1, Potter’s House Christian 3
- Hart 4, Suttons Bay 1
- Ludington 0, Big Rapids 0
- Muskegon Catholic Central 4, Manistee 0
- Mona Shores 1, Grandville 2
- Grand Haven 3, Western Michigan Christian 1
- Reeths-Puffer 8, Tri-County 0
- Montague 3, Grant 0
- Newaygo 8, Orchard View 0
- Byron Center Zion Christian 9, Ravenna 1
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