The first women’s soccer national championship was awarded to North Carolina 36 years ago, in 1982, for its 2-0 win over Central Florida. Since then, 11 teams have claimed the top spot in NCAA DI women’s soccer. The most recent champion, Florida State, secured its fourth national title in 2023, solidifying its place among the elite programs in the sport.
North Carolina stands out as the most dominant team in women’s soccer history, with a staggering 21 national championships to their name. The Tar Heels have been a force to be reckoned with, consistently making deep runs in the tournament and showcasing their prowess on the field. Their 1992 national championship game against Duke remains the highest-scoring title match in women’s soccer history, ending in a resounding 9-1 victory.
Following closely behind North Carolina is Florida State, with four national championships under their belt. The Seminoles broke through in 2014 to claim their first title and have since added three more to their collection, including a thrilling penalty kick victory over BYU in 2021. Their most recent triumph in 2023 saw them defeat Stanford 5-1 in the championship game.
Stanford and Notre Dame are tied with three national championships each, showcasing their consistency and success in women’s college soccer. Stanford’s back-to-back titles in 2017 and 2019 solidified their status as a powerhouse in the sport, while Notre Dame’s hard-fought victories in 1995, 2004, and 2010 highlight their resilience and determination on the field.
Santa Clara, Southern California, and Portland round out the list of teams with two national championships apiece. Santa Clara’s triumphs in 2001 and 2020 bookend their success over the years, while Southern California’s victories in 2007 and 2016 showcase their ability to rise to the occasion in championship matches. Portland’s gritty performances in 2002 and 2005 highlight their ability to come out on top in high-pressure situations.
The history of the women’s college soccer championship match is filled with memorable moments and thrilling contests. From North Carolina’s dominant run in the 1980s and 1990s to Florida State’s recent success, each championship game has added to the rich tapestry of the sport. As the competition continues to evolve and grow, these powerhouse programs will undoubtedly continue to leave their mark on women’s soccer for years to come.