The Concordia University Texas women's soccer team is poised to defend the momentum of a breakout 2025 season that saw them reach the SCAC Championship match for the first time in program history. Head coach Andy Tunnicliffe, who has guided the squad through a period of rapid growth, believes the experience gained on the field will form a solid foundation for the 2026 campaign.
A Historic Foundation
Last season the Tornados finished the conference slate with a 5-3-2 record and then surged through the SCAC Tournament, defeating Austin College 3-0 before pulling off a 1-0 upset of top‑seeded Texas Lutheran. Their run to the championship match marked a watershed moment for the program and set a new benchmark for future teams.
Returning to the lineup are several key contributors who helped write that story. Senior defender Karis Hickey started all 20 matches in 2025, anchoring a back line that kept three clean sheets, while forward Maddie Oberholtzer added three goals and an assist, including a pivotal helper in the semifinal victory. Midfielder Tatum Winn, who led the team with five assists a year ago, will again provide creative spark, and forward Emma Payne logged a team‑high 38 shots, earning a spot on the SCAC All‑Tournament Team.
The roster also welcomes fresh faces in Kareena Rodriguez and Sari Hernandez, who are expected to add depth and versatility as the team navigates a demanding schedule. Alongside returning veterans such as Lilianna Cherry and Lorian Lopez, the blend of senior leadership and new talent creates a competitive environment that Tunnicliffe says will sharpen the squad's work ethic and communication.
Key Matches and Milestones
Concordia will test itself against non‑conference opponents early in the season, hosting Trinity on September 11 and staging a Senior Night showdown with Howard Payne on September 21. The schedule culminates with the SCAC Women's Soccer Tournament slated for November 5‑8 at the Round Rock Multipurpose Complex, where the Tornados hope to defend their title and add another chapter to their growing legacy.
Beyond the on‑field action, the program emphasizes unity, relentless work ethic, and clear communication as core values. If the team can translate those principles into consistent performances, the 2026 season may well see the Tornados standing atop the conference once again.