Lubbock Christian University (LCU) kicks off its 2025 women’s soccer season this Saturday against the No. 4 Colorado School of Mines. The game will take place at 7 p.m. at the LCU Soccer & Track Complex, and admission is free for all fans.
Season Overview
This year, LCU will play a total of 18 games, with nine at home. The Lady Chaps are coming off a solid 2024 season, finishing with a record of 8-7-3 under head coach Alistair Caldwell, who is starting his second year with the team. Although they finished seventh in the Lone Star Conference preseason poll, they’re returning a strong squad.
Key players include:
- Ella Spiller: An All-Region selection.
- Bonnie Miller, Emma Best, Journee Curs, and Claire Jacobson: All-Conference honorees.
An exciting returnee is Lexi De La Cruz, a senior and past All-LSC selection, who aims to bounce back after suffering an injury last season.
Roster Changes
LCU’s roster boasts 33 players, with 19 returning from last year. Notably, of the 25 goals scored last season, 15 were made by players who are back. The remaining 14 roster spots include 12 freshmen, mostly from Texas, along with two transfers, Victoria Vidaurre and Riley Espinoza.
A Step Back in Time
Caldwell’s first season was notable, as the team averaged 1.39 goals per game while holding opponents to 1.22 goals. Their effective play included putting 55.7% of their total shots on goal. This year, they’ll look to improve on those stats by harnessing the experience of returning players.
Fair Play Stats
Last year, LCU made headlines by averaging just 6.78 fouls per game, the lowest in the Lone Star Conference. This focus on discipline saw them accumulate only 122 fouls throughout the season, with a peak of 16 fouls in a single game. The Lady Chaps’ commitment to fair play is a core part of their strategy.
Looking Ahead to the Game
The Colorado School of Mines finished last season with an impressive record of 20-1-2. They are coming off a hot streak and are favored to win their league again this year, making Saturday’s matchup particularly intense. The Orediggers return standout player Bella Campos, who was named RMAC Co-Player of the Year last year.
A win this Saturday would mark several milestones for LCU:
- Their 131st all-time win.
- The ninth victory under Caldwell.
- Their first season-opening win since 2022.
Conclusion
As Lubbock Christian prepares for their season opener, the blend of returning talent, new faces, and a commitment to sportsmanship sets the stage for an exciting campaign ahead. Fans can expect an energized game as the Lady Chaps take on a formidable opponent.
