WSOC eyes a fresh start

Junior Forward Julia Kozdras dribbling past a defender on Sept. 5 versus Bryn Mawr College. Photo courtesy of Aaron Heller

By Piper Wright //

After a 4-13-2 record in the 2025 season, Hood College women’s soccer team is looking to turn its experience into more wins this year. 

“I think we’ve had a tough couple of years where we haven’t gotten the results that we have been wanting,” head coach Molly Kovarik said. “We did a lot of work last fall, last spring, in the off season and have done a ton of work this preseason, so I’m excited to see all of that come together, to get out there and score some goals.” 

The Blazers are looking to improve in many statistical areas including reducing fouls, goals given up, increasing shots on goal and increasing the number of corners the Blazers earn while reducing the number of corners the team gives up. 

“Some of our biggest goals for this year are to improve our overall teamwork and communication on and off the field,” Sophomore goalkeeper Ashley Stine said. “We want to develop a strong and supportive team culture, while also of course making a run in the playoffs.” 

The Blazers came back with a strong group of returning players, along with a competitive group of transfers and first-years. 

“I think there’s a lot of experience in the incoming class that we have, I think some of our first-years have been really great additions where they’re stepping up, playing heavy minutes right away,” Kovarik said. “It’s an environment where they’re eager to be a part of because everyone’s really working together.” 

The team continues to compete in the highly competitive MAC Commonwealth conference, which welcomes Neumann University as its newest addition. 

“I think we’re going to be a little bit of underdogs this year in a sense, but I think there’s a potential for a lot of great things to happen this fall.” Kovarik said. 

The Blazers are back in action on Thomas Athletic Field on Tuesday Sept. 15 at 6 p.m. against Eastern Mennonite University for their pride night.  

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