The women’s soccer team is off to a much stronger start in 2024 than in recent seasons.
Last fall, the team opened its schedule with an 0-8 mark before posting a victory. In 2022, the squad opened the season with an 0-6 record.
“I think coming into the season everyone was a little nervous,” said sophomore defender Riley Cerqua. “I know that personally, I was really excited to see what could come of this season.
“No one really knew what to expect because we have a new head coach, as well as 12 new players.”
The Red Flash are currently 2-2-2 entering Thursday’s home match against Duquesne.
“I think this year our team has a brand-new attitude and motivation to succeed,” said sophomore forward Mercedez Paino.
“It’s exciting to see what the rest of the season holds for us.”
Following Thursday’s match against the Dukes, first-year head coach Brian Diaz’s team will travel to Akron (Sept. 15) and Chicago State (Sept. 19).
Paino said she hopes that the team’s fans will turn out for Thursday’s match against Duquesne, which begins at 4 p.m.
“Our team always has good energy going into game days, but having our friends and fellow student-athletes come to games brings a whole new type of energy that our team loves,” said Paino.
Paino scored the team’s first goal of the season in a 2-1 victory over Niagara on Aug. 15.
“The team certainly feeds off the fans and the energy that they bring,” added Cerqua.
“The play gets faster, touches get sharper. The more fans there, the better the atmosphere.”
