CONWAY - It's been 10 months since the last time the Bears took the pitch, but on Thursday night, the Trojans from Little Rock come to town for an I-40 Showdown.

The 2020 season kickoffs Thursday night with an I-40 Showdown at home against the Little Rock Trojans set for a 7 PM kickoff. The Trojans are coming off of a 5-8-6 season last year. But the Bears are ready, coming off a 5-12-1 season including four wins from their last five games during the 2019 season. Last season, the two teams met in Little Rock as the match finished in a 2-2 draw. 

The Bears then welcome a second in-state opponent, the Arkansas State Red Wolves, on Sunday, which is set for a 6 PM kickoff. The Red Wolves are coming off a 11-6-4 season, which included our 3-1 loss away last season. 

"We are so excited to be able to play this week! The leadership from President Davis and Dr. Teague through all of this has been unbelievable." Coach Jeremy Bishop said. "They have led us through the steps necessary, with the student athletes and our staff's safety front and center."

The Bears return their two top goal scorers from last season Emma Hawkins and Hadley Dickinson.

Coach Bishop spoke on the two upcoming matches. "It's been a long preseason, the team has done a great job of staying focused and preparing. They are ready to compete and play two quality in-state programs(LR and Arkansas State). Both of these matches should be fun to watch."