MOBILE, Ala. – The University of South Alabama soccer team will face three NCAA Tournament participants in its 2016 spring schedule released Tuesday.

Three of the five dates will be played at The Cage.

"I am very happy with the schedule that we have been able to put together for the spring," USA head coach Graham Winkworth said. "We have a lot of games quite early this year and so we must work hard immediately to prepare both physically and tactically."

South Alabama opens at home Feb. 21 against Mobile, then travel to Auburn, who advanced to the Sweet 16, Feb. 27 for a rematch of their Sept. 13 encounter won 2-1 by the Tigers.

The following week, USA hosts Southeastern Louisiana March 6, then welcomes Spring Hill two days later. Southeastern Louisiana fell to Auburn in the opening round of the NCAAs.

April 5 marks the conclusion of the schedule with a date at LSU. South Alabama defeated LSU 4-0 in the first round of the NCAA Tournament in November.

"To play three teams that were a part of the NCAA Tournament last year is wonderful preparation," Winkworth said. "Mobile had a spell at No. 1 in the NAIA last year and Spring Hill will be eager to impress their new coach, so both these schools will also provide us with excellent competition.

"I am very excited about 2016 and hope that we can work hard to make this year as memorable as the last three."

For more information about South Alabama athletics, check back with www.usajaguars.com, and follow the Jaguars at www.twitter.com/USAJaguarSports. Season tickets for all Jaguar athletic events can be purchased by calling (251) 461-1USA (1872).

—USA—

2016 Spring Schedule
Feb 21 (Sun) – MOBILE, 4 p.m.
Feb 27 (Sat) – at Auburn, TBA
Mar 6 (Sun) – SOUTHEASTERN LOUISIANA, 4:30 p.m.
Mar 8 (Tue) – SPRING HILL, 7 p.m.
Apr 5 (Tue) – at LSU, 7:30 p.m.