2026 Fall Check-In: Oregon

(Photo by Robert White)

We're staying out West for our next Fall Check-In as we head to Eugene to check in with Oregon.  The Ducks are coming off their first trip to the MCLA National Championships Presented by New Balance since 2018 and are looking to build on it in 2027.  We talked with head coach Jared Steele to see how the Ducks plan to do it. 

You can view our prior Fall Check-In pieces here:  Georgia, Tampa, Arizona State

MCLA: The Ducks made their back to nationals for the first time since 2018.  What do you think was the biggest thing that helped you guys get back there and what was the biggest lesson of that experience?

Jared Steele: Our success last year has a lot to do with the culture that has been built over time here by our coaches, student officers and players. Our coaching staff did an excellent job with game prep each week; our guys were selfless, and they found the joy in the game. 

Our biggest lessons from last year for our team were that every game has an impact on seeding at the National Tournament and that, with the right preparation and energy level, they can compete with anyone. 

MCLA: You all lost in the first round against No. 2 seed Utah Valley in a hard fought game, what needs to change for you guys to take the next step and advance to Tuesday?

JS: I was really impressed with the way our guys prepared and the energy they brought to that game. We just need to continue focusing on the little things and working week to week to build the strongest body of work we can throughout the season, so we put ourselves in the best possible position come tournament time. 

MCLA: What are the schedule highlights?  Any big trips?

JS: We've got a few fun trips on the books. We'll head down to the Bay Area to kick off the season at Sonoma State and Cal. We're also headed to Southern California to play Chapman & USC, and then we've got a spring break trip to Arizona to play Arizona and ASU. 

MCLA: Four of your top five scorers from 2026 have eligibility remaining, are you expecting those guys to lead the way again?

JS: While a couple of those guys have graduated, we will be returning a couple as well who I see leading our team both in scoring and in setting the standard for how we want to play and prepare every day. There are also a couple of new faces coming in that I can see being major contributors as well. 

MCLA: What are your goals for Fall Ball to get your team ready for the season?

JS: We've got some new guys, so getting everyone on the same page is going to be crucial. We will use fall, plus a couple of scrimmages mixed in to make sure we are ready to go come January. 

Thanks to Coach Steele for taking the time to answer some questions.  

Coaches, if you'd like for your program to be featured in our Fall Check-In series reach out to info@mcla.us