A Final Home Test in August
The Chattanooga Mocs will close out their August slate with a home contest against Eastern Kentucky University on August 30 at 1:00 p.m. EDT, the match taking place at Finley Stadium, a venue that has become a familiar battleground for the program.
Series History and Recent Results
The all‑time series sits at 2‑3‑2 in favor of the Colonels, and the most recent meeting in the Scenic City ended with a 2‑1 defeat for the Mocs. Maggie Shaw’s second‑half strike, sparked by a Grace Klippenstein free kick, narrowed the gap but could not overturn the 2‑1 loss.
Key Players and Statistical Highlights
Quinn Johnson anchors the Mocs’ attack with three goals this season, including two game‑winning scores, while Caroline Ekern has emerged as the team’s most victorious keeper, earning a fifth year of eligibility under an NCAA ruling and posting 34 career wins and 22 clean sheets. Eastern Kentucky’s offense averages 2.50 goals per game and holds a 10‑3 goal differential, outshot the Mocs 16‑13 with an 8‑7 advantage on target.
Defensive Backbone and Coaching Additions
Lilly Kate Varino’s shutout in her debut against Austin Peay and the team’s recent three‑game streak of clean sheets illustrate a defensive stability that complements Ekern’s experience. Off the field, Zoey Mize, a 2026 graduate, has joined the coaching staff as an assistant, bringing fresh perspective to the program.
Season Outlook and Expectations
The Mocs were selected fifth in the Southern Conference preseason coaches poll, a placement that reflects both optimism and the challenges that lie ahead. With key contributors like Johnson, Ekern and the newly added coaching talent, the team enters the final August match poised to make a strong statement before the conference season intensifies.