The Big Dance
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Nov. 13, 2003
2003 Women’s Soccer NCAA Tournament Opening Rounds
CHARLOTTESVILLE – To say the final weeks of the women’s soccer team’s season have been a roller coaster is not an understatement. After progressing through the season and amounting a 13-3-2 record, the Cavaliers have lost three tough games in a row to North Carolina, Clemson, and Duke. However, the team has a good chance for redemption this weekend as the NCAA Tournament gets underway at Klockner Stadium.
Last week’s loss to Duke in the quarterfinals of the ACC was not typical for the Cavs this season. However, the sun hasn’t set on this season yet and there is still a chance for the team to redeem themselves.
“I have a lot of confidence in this team,” says Kelly Hammond, “and I feel that we will be able to have a lot of success in the tournament…. The loss to Duke in the ACC Tournament was definitely really hard. While we suffered a few injuries, I feel that our team has been really focused on our next opponent, William and Mary, and we are excited to get the home bid.”
The first two rounds of the tournament this weekend will be held in the friendly home confines of Klockner Stadium. This should prove advantageous for the Cavs in building confidence and momentum to move on in the tournament.
“Playing at home is a huge advantage,” contends Hammond, “especially with our record at home being as good as it is. We always get a great crowd and we hope once again to get a huge crowd to support us in these important games.”
Friday at 4:30pm the ladies will take on in-state rival William and Mary. The other game on Friday, which is at 7:00pm, will face off Princeton and Villanova. With a successful, up and down season behind them, Head Coach Swanson is likely to not put pressure on the team going into Friday afternoon. The Cavs know what it takes to win and know how important NCAA wins can be for the team.
The winners of the two games on Friday will next play on Sunday at 1:00pm. Make sure you come out and cheer on the Cavs as they push forward in the NCAA Tournament. Adults enter for $8, while Youth, Students, and Seniors pay $4. Tickets can be purchased at Klockner Stadium one hour prior to game time.