As the new women's soccer season approaches, the University of Southern Indiana's Lady Screaming Eagles are setting a tone of optimism that stretches far beyond the pitch. Head coach Eric Schoenstein has made cultivating a positive environment the cornerstone of his program, believing that mindset can be as decisive as skill on the field.
A Culture of Positivity
A year ago, the team stood just two victories away from capturing the Ohio Valley Conference Tournament championship, only to see their hopes dissolve in a penalty shoot‑out against Tennessee Tech after a scoreless double‑overtime battle. The narrow loss left a lingering sense of what could have been, but it also forged a resilience that the squad now carries into the new campaign.
Schoenstein emphasizes that the program's success will be measured not only in trophies but in the daily atmosphere he creates for his players. "We want a space where growth and learning feel natural," he says, "and where positivity fuels confidence on match day."
Forward Payton Seymour, one of the returning veterans, echoes that sentiment, noting that staying upbeat even in the face of adversity has become a cornerstone of the squad's identity. "When we keep our heads high, the results follow," she adds, highlighting how the team's culture has shifted toward collective optimism.
This fall the roster will look different. A large senior class has graduated, leaving significant shoes to fill, while one of the biggest freshman classes in recent years arrives with fresh energy and talent. The blend of experience and new blood promises to add depth and dynamism to the lineup.
The Eagles will test their new outlook in an exhibition match against Bellarmine on August 5, a game that will serve as the first measuring stick for a season built on positivity. The matchup offers a chance to see how the team's philosophy translates into on‑field execution.
Looking ahead, the team hopes to translate its positive mindset into tangible results, aiming to improve on last year's near‑championship performance and contend for the conference title. With a culture rooted in optimism and a schedule that includes challenging matchups, the Lady Screaming Eagles are poised to make a strong impression this season.