As the new season approaches, excitement builds in Georgia, where the University of Georgia Bulldogs are looking to make a splash in women’s soccer, potentially reaching the 2024 College Cup for the first time. Last season, the Bulldogs achieved their first-ever SEC tournament championship and advanced deep into the NCAA tournament, a remarkable feat that has energized the fan base. Their thrilling clash with Clemson in the Round of 16, which ended in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 tie, highlighted the team’s resilient defense and dynamic offense.
Even with the departure of standout midfielder Croix Bethune to the NWSL, Georgia returns most of its key players. Among them, Kiera Staude, a Freshman All-American, and three other leading goal scorers are ready to take the field once again. With a mix of experienced players and new transfers from the SEC, the Bulldogs are primed for another strong showing.
Joining the conversation for the College Cup is Pitt, which also made history last year by reaching the NCAA tournament quarterfinals for the first time. They set new records for overall wins, total goals, and notable victories against elite teams like North Carolina and Duke. Despite falling to Florida State in the quarterfinals, the Panthers are hungry for more this year and will kick things off against Georgia on August 15.
Nebraska expects to bounce back after narrowly missing out on last year’s College Cup. The team lost to Stanford in a close game that went into overtime. This season, the Huskers are aiming to fill the gap left by top scorer Eleanor Dale with senior Sara Weber stepping up. The team’s season will begin with a tough challenge against Duke on August 22.
Saint Louis also returns with high hopes, featuring Emily Gaebe, who was a key player last season and was named a MAC Hermann Trophy semifinalist. The reigning Atlantic 10 champions are looking to build on their previous tournament run and will face BYU and Penn State in their opening month, both pivotal matches to gauge their potential.
The journey to Cary, North Carolina, for the College Cup begins now. With numerous programs eyeing their first semifinals appearance, this season is set to be thrilling.
