UC Clermont women’s soccer starts season, shoots for third national title

The UC Clermont women’s soccer team is looking to defend their national championship title as they return to the field after Covid cancelled the 2020 season. The team previously won the United States Collegiate Athletic Association Division II national championship in 2018 and 2019.

“We only have six returning players this year and a lot of newbies,” said Head Coach Steve Farrell. “We’re excited to see how the team is. We’re looking to compete at the top level again this year.”

While Farrell admits that having so many players making their college debuts can be challenging, he likes what he has seen in practice so far.

“I think for a young team, we’ve shown real growth already in the summer, and that’s our main advantage in having a local roster,” Farrell said. “The players get to know each other or played against each other in high school. It’s fun for them to come together on the same side wearing red and black.”

Team captains Alexis Taylor (Hamilton High School), senior defensive player, and Amy McKendry (Lakota West High School), junior midfielder, are ready to see how the team of 17 meld on the playing field. “I’m excited to see where the new players take us,” said McKendry. “We want to take the title again.”

In addition to Taylor and McKendry, Farrell said he expects forward Julianna Harrison (New Richmond High School), a main contributor in 2019, and incoming freshman Page Tolkey (forward, Ross High School) to have impacts as well.

But Farrell’s main goal is getting through the season with his team intact and on the field.

“In this new reality, it will be a challenge to keep our full roster healthy,” Farrell said. “We will have had a successful season if we end up in Virginia Beach for the tournament. We have the opportunity to play an enjoyable style and will be a fun team to watch.”

The Cougars’ first home game is Monday, Sept. 27 against Rio Grande University. Games are open to the public and take place at West Clermont Middle School, 1341 Clough Pike Batavia, Ohio. See the team's full schedule and roster.