Christopher Hamilton Assistant Strength & Conditioning Coach | University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics Website
Christopher Hamilton Assistant Strength & Conditioning Coach | University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics Website
Fighting Illini soccer is set for two upcoming away games as they continue their Big Ten campaign. The team will face Northwestern on Thursday, September 28, at 7:00 p.m. CT in Evanston, Illinois, followed by a match against Ohio State on Sunday, October 1, at 11:00 a.m. CT in Columbus, Ohio.
This season marks the 27th year of Illinois soccer and the 22nd under head coach Janet Rayfield. The Illini currently hold an overall record of 282-212-45.
In their previous matches, Illinois had mixed results with a loss to Indiana and a victory over Michigan. Against Indiana, Sydney Stephens scored an equalizer before the team conceded another goal. In the match against Michigan, Makala Woods and Sarah Foley scored to secure a win for Illinois.
Northwestern has been struggling recently with losses to both Michigan and Indiana in their last matches. Despite this, Northwestern was predicted to finish second in the Big Ten this season.
Ohio State also faced defeat against Nebraska but managed a narrow victory over Maryland recently. The Buckeyes were projected to finish seventh in the conference this season.
Illinois has seen contributions from multiple players this season. Sydney Stephens leads with four goals while goalkeeper Julia Cili has achieved notable save statistics. Newcomers like Mya Archibald have made significant impacts early in their collegiate careers.
The Illini roster includes seniors Kennedy Berschel and Makala Woods along with junior Ella Karolak who were named to the Big Ten Players to Watch List.
Following these road games, Illinois will continue their travels with a match against Minnesota on October 8.
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