While most people know the University of Connecticut as the “Basketball Capital of the World,” there’s one corner of the UConn athletics scene that can be a valuable resource to incoming freshmen: soccer games.
The games, mostly on weekday evenings and Sunday afternoons, are perfect for new students to socialize while enjoying the UConn spirit. Whether it’s spending time with a new roommate, neighbors from down the hall or meeting up with a new friend, soccer games are the perfect way to build new bonds and get to know new friends.
Although the start of the school year can be intimidating for newcomers, there’s no better way to unwind and begin a new friendship than with UConn athletics. The low-stress environment and entertaining matches are some of the best ways to break the ice with peers, find a common interest and get to know the Storrs campus a bit better. The icing on the cake? The gorgeous sunsets over the field that typically accompany the contests.
While the soccer games are a fantastic opportunity for students to chat and enjoy each other’s company, they’re also a great way to build UConn spirit, as both the men’s and women’s teams have been largely successful.
Last fall, the women (10-4-5) and men (9-8-1) enjoyed a season of highs.
The women’s team finished third in the Big East with a 6-1-3 conference record and even tied a program record for six All-Big East athletes. Among the athletes was Chioma Okafor, who earned first-team All-Big East as a sophomore. The forward spent her 1,438 minutes on the field earning six goals and three assists proving herself to be an attacking team leader. There was never a dull moment with Okafor on the field, and she will most likely continue an upward climb during her junior season.
Kaitlyn Mahoney, the 2023 Big East Goalkeeper of the Year, will be returning for her fifth year. Mahoney will be one to watch as she tied for 13th in the nation with a remarkable 10 shutouts last season. UConn newcomers will quickly learn Mahoney’s name, as she has proven herself to be an undeniable powerhouse in goal throughout her collegiate career.
As for the future of the team, the squad has added seven freshmen to the roster this year.
The men have been equally as successful with Kieran Chandler being named Big East Co-Freshman of the Year. Chandler was an unbeatable force for the Huskies’ defensive line and he made waves in the defensive arena. The men’s squad will also be joined by a handful of newcomers with six freshmen added to the group, occupying every position from forward to goal.
As the academic year creeps closer and the campus prepares to welcome the UConn Nation back, the soccer scene isn’t one to miss. Luckily, the men’s squad will be hosting matches the first week back on campus.
As for the freshmen, don’t be a stranger. Grab your new roommate, residence hall neighbor or new friend from class, and head over to Morrone Stadium for a warm welcome to UConn Nation.