A historic opening night at Betts Stadium
The Mercer University women's soccer team delivered a commanding 8‑0 victory over South Carolina State University in their first ever home match at Betts Stadium, signaling a strong start to the season.
Forward Zibby Michaelson ignited the second half with a hat trick in just seven minutes, capping a rapid offensive burst that left the Bulldogs scrambling.
Defender Ashley Gilbert opened the scoring with a long‑range strike that took a deflection off keeper Jada Giddings, setting the tone early. Midfielders Marianna Rapani and Anna Bachman orchestrated the pressure, threading incisive passes that kept South Carolina State on the back foot.
Olivia Bori added two goals and Emily Rutkowski contributed one, while Hayden Lepley’s shot from the top corner ricocheted off the post before finding the net. Bachman’s four assists matched her season‑high, underscoring her role as the team’s creative engine.
The Bears’ midfield, which led the Southern Conference in assists last year, continued its dominance, nearly doubling the second‑place team’s total. Coach Tony Economopoulos, now in his 14th season, praised the collective effort and highlighted the impact of returning Preseason All‑SoCon nominees Anna Bachman and Payton Nutzman.
Eleven freshmen joined the roster, including Michaelson and Rutkowski, adding depth and future prospects. The team aims to build on last year’s Southern Conference finals appearance, where they fell to Samford University, and will next face Georgia Southern University on August 27 before traveling to the University of Georgia on August 30.
Looking ahead
With a blend of experienced leaders and promising newcomers, Mercer’s squad is poised to contend in the SoCon and beyond. The upcoming matches will test their momentum as they seek to translate early dominance into a sustained campaign.