Bradford, Pa. – The University of Pittsburgh at Bradford Women's Soccer program is prepared to begin its 2025 campaign, a year after posting a 6-7-3 record in 2024.
Last year, the team saw a 5-win improvement under 2nd year head coach Lorenzo Rodriguez. Their six victories were the most in a season since the 2017-18 campaign. Freshman Mya King led the attack with 13 goals and 8 assists, earning 3rd Team All-AMCC honors. Avery Yard added 8 goals, while Gianna Gomez scored 6. Makartnee Mortimer was a mainstay in the Pitt-Bradford defense, playing nearly every minute for the Panthers.
"Heading into this new season, there is a different energy in the air, one built on hunger, urgency, and belief," said Rodriguez. "We are bringing back a battle-tested core which will lead an impressive group of newcomers who will look to make an immediate impact."
Mortimer, King, Yard, and Gomez all return to lead the team, along with a trio of impact sophomores who played a major role last season: Lauren Donnelly, Rylee Billings, and Payton Frank. The Panthers have a trio of first-year goalkeepers who will battle for the starting job. The incoming class comprises a mix of experienced transfers and incoming freshmen, providing quality, athleticism, and competition for playing time.
"From day one of camp, the tone has been clear: this group is here to compete," added Rodriguez. "Every training session has been filled with intensity, accountability, and relentlessness. We are locked in and ready to take the next step."
In the annual AMCC Preseason Coaches Poll, the Panthers were predicted to finish 7th, which would put them just outside of postseason play.
"As a coach, I couldn't be more excited for what lies ahead. This group is embracing the hard work, and we're ready to face whatever comes our way," closed Rodriguez
Pitt-Bradford will play 7 non-conference matches, including 4 at home, before opening AMCC play at LaRoche on September 27th.
They will open the season at home, hosting SUNY Cobleskill on Friday, August 29th at 5:00 p.m. at Rathburn Family Field.
