After a long winter’s hibernation, the women’s soccer squad made their return to the field in early March to kick off the spring season. After brushing off the winter’s rest and finding their footing again, the women have gotten back into the saddle.
This weekend, the crew will hit the road to face Bryant in their fourth spring contest.
Last fall, the Huskies went 10-4-5 to finish third in the Big East. It proved to be a successful season for UConn, as they ranked higher than in previous years and climbed their way to a top seed. In the past two seasons, the Huskies have fallen to the middle of the pack in the conference as a No. 6 rank; but this year, the group cashed their ticket to success and rode it to the top.
In 2023, the Huskies had an unmistakably strong forward-to-midfield line. Sophomore Chioma Okafor led the frontlines with a resume of six goals and three assists. Coming in just behind her was graduate student Cara Jordan with five netted shots and three assists. The offensive leaders also made sure to share the love as five other athletes all had several points in the books.
In goal, Kaitlyn Mahoney seamlessly closed out her senior season and held down the fort. With nearly 890 minutes of gameplay in 2023 and only stepping out for 12:47 the entire season, Mahoney meant business. Sure enough, the records not only show her incredible stats but ensure the legacy she leaves behind will be one for the books. With a near-perfect save percentage, tying 13th in the country with 10 shutouts, eighth most shutouts in UConn single-season history and being named the 2023 Big East Goalkeeper of the Year, there’s no doubt Mahoney will leave behind big shoes to fill. Until then, she has two games left in the spring season to close out her four years as a Husky.
Looking to this weekend, UConn’s focus will be Bryant. As a new competitor for the Huskies, there is some uncertainty. What is known, however, is their 2023 performance.
Last season, the Bulldogs finished 7-5-4 and fell to the floor of their conference (2-3-3). On top of that, UConn appears to be stronger by the numbers. Outshooting and outscoring Bryant are just a few ways UConn has already topped the Bulldogs before even hitting the field.
However, no outcome is truly set in stone and UConn must continue to play to the high caliber they’ve already set. Since the Bulldogs will be welcoming the Huskies to a new doghouse, it will be up to UConn to remain the top dog.
Kick-off is scheduled for 4 p.m. in Smithfield, R.I.