Summer Success for BGSU Players in Pittsburgh
Five members of the Bowling Green State University women’s soccer squad spent the summer competing in the Pittsburgh Riveters’ USL W League side, a move that has added depth and experience to the club’s campaign.
The Riveters, who finished the regular season without a loss and secured the Great Forest Division championship, benefited from the added talent, integrating the BGSU athletes into a squad that boasts a 32‑5 goal differential.
Among the newcomers were midfielders Minah Syam and Emme Butera, defenders Gabby Lamparty and Taylor Green, and goalkeeper Lexi Grundler, each bringing a different background but sharing a common goal of sharpening their skills before the fall schedule.
Building Chemistry on and off the Field
Lamparty highlighted that simply being together during training sessions created a sense of unity that she believes will pay dividends when the Falcons reconvene for the upcoming season.
The summer also allowed players like Syam, Green and Grundler to refine their tactical understanding, adapting to faster tempos and higher stakes that they will carry into the MAC campaign.
Coach Chris Fox’s recommendation to pursue summer league action opened a dialogue with Riveters Sporting Director Scott Gibson, fostering a relationship that could benefit both programs beyond the current season.
Payton O’Malley, another BGSU goalkeeper, tested herself with Steel City FC and competed in the TST 7v7 world championship, gaining exposure to a different style of play that broadened her competitive perspective.
The Riveters’ undefeated run, crowned with a division title, ended with a playoff victory before a narrow loss on June 27, a result that underscores the high level of competition the BGSU athletes faced.
Looking ahead, the Falcons open their regular season against Robert Morris on August 16, aiming to translate the summer’s lessons into a strong MAC title run.