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SPARTANBURG, S.C. – After a tough start to the 2025 season, the Wofford women’s soccer team has turned a corner in late August. With back-to-back victories over Gardner–Webb and Presbyterian, the Terriers have found confidence and rhythm on both ends of the field.
Breaking Through Against Gardner–Webb
On Aug. 28, the Terriers traveled to Boiling Springs and came away with a much-needed 2–1 win over Gardner–Webb. The victory snapped a four-game losing streak to open the season and showcased the resiliency of head coach Emily Grant’s squad.
Freshman Julia Grier provided a spark in the 28th minute, heading in her first collegiate goal to tie the match. The Terriers continued to press, and in the second half, Charlotte Simas delivered the difference-maker in the 71st minute, finishing off a feed from Ansley Elizalde.
Between the posts, senior goalkeeper Elizabeth Navola kept Wofford steady with a handful of critical stops. The defense limited Gardner–Webb’s late chances, allowing the Terriers to celebrate their first win of 2025.
Statement Win at Presbyterian
Three days later, Wofford carried its momentum into Clinton, S.C., where they outplayed Presbyterian College in a 3–1 decision. While the first half ended scoreless, the Terriers stormed out of halftime with a renewed attacking presence.
Kate Markey opened the scoring in the 55th minute, capitalizing on a setup from Grier. When Presbyterian equalized midway through the second half, Wofford responded almost instantly. Aly Bernhard answered just 23 seconds later, scoring unassisted to swing momentum back in the Terriers’ favor.
The match was put out of reach in the 78th minute when Ines Obradovac rose above the defense to head home a throw-in from Saachi Bureau. Wofford dominated the stat sheet with an 18–9 edge in shots and an 8–5 advantage on corners, underscoring their control of the match.
A Team Coming Together
What stands out in these two wins is the balance across the roster. Grier has emerged as a promising young contributor, while veterans like Simas, Markey, and Bernhard have provided timely finishing. On the back line, Navola’s leadership in goal continues to steady the Terriers through tense moments.
The victories also highlight Wofford’s resilience. After opening the season 0–4, including narrow losses to East Carolina and Richmond, the Terriers could have let frustration linger. Instead, they’ve responded with composure and back-to-back wins that may signal a turning point.
Looking Ahead
Wofford now sits at 2–4–0 overall and will try to extend its winning streak when it hosts Winthrop University on Thursday, Sept. 4, at Snyder Field. With confidence growing and contributions coming from both veterans and freshmen, the Terriers will aim to keep momentum rolling into September before Southern Conference play begins.
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