WKU Soccer concluded a fruitful spring season marked by five matches, a 7v7 tournament, and the annual team banquet held in April.
The Lady Toppers initiated their spring campaign with the traditional 7v7 tournament at Houchens-Smith Stadium on March 2. Partnering with Mighty Kicks, a local children’s soccer club, WKU provided a platform for kids to interact with student-athletes, fostering a strong sense of community engagement.
Head coach Jason Neidell expressed delight with the event’s success, emphasizing the positive impact on the Bowling Green community. Former WKU Soccer volunteer assistant coach and Mighty Kicks owner Zach Salchli lauded the partnership and expressed gratitude for the inclusive event.
The tournament featured teams from various universities, with WKU emerging as runners-up. Notable performances included Brooke Sleeva’s four goals and Georgia Liapis’s five assists.
Reflecting on the tournament, Coach Neidell commended the team’s tactical execution and competitive spirit, highlighting the players’ eagerness and composure on the field.
In subsequent matches, WKU faced Bellarmine and Trevecca Nazarene, experiencing a mix of results. Notable victories included an 8-0 win against Trevecca Nazarene, showcasing Rylee Finol’s hat trick.
The annual Alumni Game on April 6 brought former Lady Toppers back to the field, fostering camaraderie and nostalgia.
In the final matches against Lipscomb and Tennessee Tech, WKU displayed resilience and defensive prowess, securing a clean sheet against Tennessee Tech.
The season culminated with the team banquet, where individual and team achievements were celebrated. Maddie received recognition as Most Valuable Player and Defensive Player of the Year, highlighting her exceptional contributions to the team’s success.
Looking ahead to the 2024 fall season, WKU Soccer remains poised for continued excellence, with anticipation building for the release of the full schedule.
