Training Camp Begins
The Emporia State women's soccer program is gearing up for its third season under head coach Jane Grimley‑Gunn, a milestone that has the Hornets buzzing with anticipation as they look to build on recent successes.
Training camp opens on Monday, August 10, with sessions held at both Welch Stadium and the newly renovated ESU Pitch, giving players a chance to fine‑tune tactics on home ground and integrate new recruits.
The first exhibition match is slated for Friday, August 14, in El Dorado, Kansas, where the team will test its chemistry against regional opponents in a low‑stakes environment.
Additional friendlies follow in Dallas, Texas on August 21 and again on August 23, providing valuable minutes for younger squad members and allowing the coaching staff to experiment with formations.
The regular season debut comes on Thursday, August 27, with a road trip to Springfield, Missouri, to face Drury University, before the home opener on Saturday, August 29, against Maryville.
Last season the Hornets finished 9‑6‑5, advancing to the MIAA Semifinals after a dramatic 3‑2 victory over Washburn in the quarterfinals, a run that has set high expectations for the upcoming campaign.
Coach Grimley‑Gunn emphasized the importance of building depth and maintaining focus throughout a demanding schedule, noting that the team’s blend of experience and fresh talent could prove decisive.