The Abilene Christian University (ACU) Wildcats are gearing up for an exciting 2024 women’s soccer season under the leadership of head coach Stephen Salas. After a resilient 2023 season where they fell short of a spot in the Western Athletic Conference (WAC) Tournament, the Wildcats are determined to make a statement this year. With a mix of experienced returners and talented newcomers, the team is poised for success.
In the 2023 season, the Wildcats finished with a 7-9-2 overall record and a 2-6-1 conference record. Despite facing challenges, the team showed growth and resilience throughout the season. Coach Salas is looking forward to building on that experience and mentality to propel the team to a WAC Tournament appearance this year.
Key returners like senior forward Chayse Thorn, defender Macie Stephens, and midfielder Taylor Sarver (Denn) bring leadership and experience to the team. Goalkeeper Lili Ross, with a career total of 38 saves, will play a crucial role in the team’s success this season. The Wildcats‘ top players from last year, including Thorn, Sarver, Peyton Hill, and Amelia Leggett, are expected to make a significant impact this season.
Coach Salas has also brought in a strong recruiting class, with both Texas talent and out-of-state players joining the squad. The freshmen and transfers have already made their mark in the program, adding depth and competition to the team. Players like Amelia, Raelin Miller, Gracie Kelly, and Raegan Hollis have shown promise and are expected to contribute significantly to the team’s success.
The upcoming season will present challenges as the Wildcats face tough opponents in the WAC, including Grand Canyon University and Utah Valley. Coach Salas has ramped up the schedule to prepare the team for the competitive conference play. Matches against ranked teams like Mississippi State will test the Wildcats‘ abilities and help them elevate their game.
Goalkeeping is a key focus for Coach Salas, who was a goalkeeper himself during his collegiate career. The Wildcats have a strong goalkeeping squad led by players like Lili Ross, Savanna Alba, Julia Herges, and newcomer Emma Konsmo. The goalkeepers have built a special camaraderie and are working hard to be the best in the conference.
Looking ahead, Coach Salas is optimistic about the future of the program. With a dedicated coaching staff and committed players, the Wildcats are poised for success. The team’s season kicks off with a home opener against UTEP on August 17, followed by a series of challenging non-conference and conference matches.
The Wildcats will host the 2024 WAC Tournament at Elmer Gray Stadium, with the top six teams advancing to compete for the championship. Quarterfinal matches are scheduled for November 3, with the championship game set for November 9. Fans can stay updated on ACU Soccer through their website, Instagram, and Facebook for more information on the season.
In conclusion, the ACU Wildcats are ready to make their mark in the 2024 women’s soccer season with a talented roster, experienced leadership, and a determined coaching staff. With a focus on building a championship culture and competing at the highest level, the Wildcats are poised for success in the WAC and beyond.