A Shocking Start
Bella Devey erupted for a hat trick in the opening 15 minutes, delivering three of her nine season goals and propelling UNC to an 8‑0 win over Quinnipiac. The onslaught set the tone for a campaign that has already seen the Tar Heels outscore their opponents 12‑0 in two matches.
Devey’s quickfire scoring was complemented by Hope Munson, who added a goal and two assists, and Summer Denigan, who contributed two goals and a pair of helpers from midfield. Their combined efforts illustrated a depth that compensates for the loss of last year’s top scorers.
Versatility Drives the Attack
Coach Damon Nahas has guided the team toward a more selfless, defensively oriented identity in 2025, yet the offense remains potent. Devey’s willingness to drop into defensive positions when needed, coupled with Munson’s and Denigan’s ability to shift between midfield and forward roles, has created a fluid attacking structure.
The tactical flexibility was evident in a 3‑2‑4‑1 formation that saw Devey take 11 shots while the defense limited Quinnipiac to just two attempts. This balance of aggression and restraint reflects the coaching staff’s confidence in every player’s capacity to influence the game.
Coach’s Vision and Team Identity
Nahas emphasized that the team’s mantra revolves around controlling the controllables — work ethic, energy, and collective responsibility. By prioritizing opportunities for teammates, UNC has cultivated a mindset that values contribution over individual glory, a philosophy that has already yielded a 12‑goal output in the early season.
The early success also underscores the program’s resilience after losing 80 % of its goal‑scoring production from the previous year. With key figures like Olivia Thomas departing for the National Women’s Soccer League, the emergence of Devey, Munson, and Denigan provides a new source of firepower for the Tar Heels.