Duke’s women’s soccer program opened its season with a pair of decisive victories that have quickly reshaped expectations for the team. The Blue Devils began with a 3‑1 win over Southern California, where a freshman made an immediate impact.
A Freshman’s Impact
Freshman forward Sam Courtwright scored a free‑kick goal just 2 minutes and 5 seconds into the match against UCLA, giving Duke an early lead, and later contributed two assists in the victory over Southern California. Her precise passes at the 1:18 and 12:04 marks of the first half helped the team build momentum and maintain control.
Courtwright’s performances earned her a spot on the TopDrawerSoccer Team of the Week, a recognition that highlights her rapid adaptation to collegiate competition and underscores the excitement surrounding her potential.
Rising in the Rankings
The Blue Devils’ surge to No. 2 in the latest IWSOC Coaches Poll reflects both team depth and the influence of young talent like Courtwright, who has already logged a goal and two assists in her first two appearances. The early success has positioned Duke as a formidable contender in the national conversation.
Looking ahead, Duke will host FIU on August 20 and Rhode Island on August 23 at Freeman Field, with both matches streamed live on ACC Network Extra. The upcoming fixtures offer fans a chance to witness the team’s continued ascent.
Coach Emily Chen has emphasized the importance of building on this early chemistry, noting that the blend of seasoned veterans and fresh faces like Courtwright could define the team’s trajectory for the remainder of the season.