The St. Edward’s Women’s Club Soccer team has had an impressive season, with their best performance at the Stephen F. Austin State University Tournament on April 12. The team made it to the championship game, putting up a tough fight but ultimately falling to Tulane University.

With the team seeing higher levels of competition, they look to boost their level of play for the future. The coaches are also a vital part of the team and they dedicate much of their time to training their players. Kelley Dougherty, who is the current Vice President, believes the coaches bring the team together. 

“Coach Ellis and coach Buzz love the sport and they give up a lot of their time to help our team. They love coaching so much that they don’t want to be paid,” Dougherty said.

The club has grown tremendously since being founded in Fall 2010 by Shelby Cole. Many freshman have joined the team this year and have had nothing but fun. Freshman Megan Birdsell believes the team is one big family and has given her a lot of school pride.

“The team has helped me meet girls in different years and become better friends with everyone both on and off the field,” Birdsell said.

This large group of freshman has helped the team’s recent performance and they will hopefully continue to help the team for years to come as the organization continues to grow.

“We want to have more girls, more subs and continue to grow as a club,” Dougherty said.

By increasing their numbers on the field, the women’s team will become more competitive, and will find itself in a stronger position to make a run at the regional tournament next season, after missing out on the opportunity this season by only one point.

There are many reasons why this team can be successful next season. According to Dougherty, a major reason is because of how close this team is on and off the field.

“Some of my best friends are on this team, and we only get closer as a team during sleepovers and hotel hangouts before and after games.”

This team even has an interesting pre-game routine.

“Our team also has karaoke sessions and we listen to Disney music and put on power braids to get ready for our games,” Dougherty claims.

With so much energy and excitement to go along with the team’s dedication, nothing can stand in the way of an even better season next year.