Santa Clara's women's soccer squad kicked off the 2026 season in impressive fashion, posting a 2-0 victory over San Jose State that underscored both defensive discipline and offensive efficiency.
The scoring was led by a brace from forward Schoennauer, whose two goals came courtesy of precise passes from Hildi Benediktsdottir and Lucy Wimsatt, establishing an early 2-0 lead that the defense would protect.
Santa Clara outshot the Spartans 18-3, with ten of those attempts on target and nine corner kicks, while the back line limited San Jose State to just three shots, resulting in a clean sheet.
Coach Smith's Milestone
Head coach Jerry Smith celebrated a milestone, his 570th career win tying him with legendary Len Tsantiris for second place among Division I women's soccer coaches.
The match also marked the collegiate debuts of several newcomers — Mia Erba, Solana Van Enoo, Lexie Douglass, Lucy Wimsatt, Rylan Cashman, Aoi Kataoka, Litsy Alcocer and Lovisa Yng — who combined fresh energy with the established roster.
Goalkeeper Paige Fry made eight saves for the Spartans, while Santa Clara's own net‑minder contributed key stops to preserve the shutout, highlighting the competitive balance of the contest.