Campbell University’s women’s soccer program will pause its schedule on August 27 to celebrate three graduating seniors — Mia Fairchild, Zahra Fepessi and Anais van Doesburg — as they step off the field for the final time.
Senior Night Spotlights a Program on the Rise
The ceremony comes ahead of a pivotal road test against Charleston Southern on August 30, a match that forms part of the 20th all‑time series between the two programs. Campbell holds a commanding 14‑3‑2 record overall and has won eight of the last ten meetings, underscoring a long‑standing dominance that dates back two decades.
Charleston Southern arrives with a 1‑2 start this season and a 6‑8‑4 finish in 2024, when they captured a Big South Championship appearance. Their offense is anchored by Nina Meyer and Danika Birch, who have combined for multiple goals and assists, while goalkeeper MacKenzie Marotz has already logged five saves in two starts.
For the Camels, the spotlight falls on forward Ava Kanaar, who leads the team with ten points, four goals and a high volume of shots on goal, and goalkeeper Anais van Doesburg, who boasts four career shutouts and aims to extend her record of clean sheets. Freshman Samantha Witte, recently named to the 2025 CAA All‑Rookie team, adds depth after scoring three points in 16 appearances.
Coaching Legacy and Future Outlook
Head coach Jeff Gross, now in his fifth season at Campbell, brings a championship pedigree from his previous tenure at UNC Greensboro, where he guided the team to Southern Conference titles and NCAA tournament berths. A victory in the upcoming Charleston Southern clash would mark Gross’s 27th win at Campbell and provide the program’s second triumph of the current campaign.
Looking ahead, the 2026 roster will welcome eight newcomers, including transfer Kennedy Reed and freshmen Gretchen Baker, Laney Heafner and others, promising to build on the foundation laid by the graduating seniors. The blend of experienced returnees and fresh talent positions Campbell to contend for additional wins and perhaps a deeper run in the CAA tournament.