Columbia, South Carolina, August 20, 2025
News Summary
The South Carolina women’s soccer team has excelled academically, achieving a combined GPA of 3.66 for the academic year and being honored for the 22nd time in 24 seasons. Alongside their academic success, they prepare for the NCAA Tournament as the No. 3 seed, facing East Carolina. With an excellent historical record against East Carolina, the Gamecocks are set for their upcoming match broadcast on ESPN+, highlighting both their academic and athletic achievements.
Columbia, South Carolina – South Carolina Women’s Soccer Excels in Academics and Prepares for NCAA Tournament
The South Carolina women’s soccer team has received significant recognition for its academic achievements, making the United Soccer Coaches College Team Academic Award list for the 22nd time in the last 24 seasons. The team attained a remarkable combined GPA of 3.66 for the 2024-25 academic year, placing it among 414 women’s teams across various NCAA divisions.
In addition to its academic accomplishments, the Gamecocks’ women’s soccer program is gearing up for the NCAA Women’s Soccer Tournament. Currently ranked No. 14 with an official record of 10-3-7, the Gamecocks have secured the No. 3 seed in the tournament, where they will face East Carolina (also at 10-3-7) on Fri., Nov. 15, at 6 p.m.. This tournament matchup will be broadcast on ESPN+ for fans to watch.
South Carolina is one of just 151 schools whose men’s and women’s soccer teams have both been recognized in the current academic year. The women’s soccer program is opening its 30th season and marks its 25th season under the leadership of head coach Shelley Smith.
The Gamecocks’ season kickoff is set for Thu., Aug. 14, at 7 p.m. against College of Charleston. Prior to the regular season, the team will host an exhibition game on Fri., Aug. 8, at 6 p.m. against Duke, with free admission available at Stone Stadium.
In their recent SEC Tournament championship, South Carolina faced off against No. 21 Texas, where they lost by a close margin of 1-0. Despite outshooting the Longhorns 17 to 14, the Gamecocks were unable to find the net in this tightly contested match, with Texas scoring the winning goal via a corner kick in the 80th minute.
East Carolina earned its spot in the NCAA Tournament by stunning No. 19 Memphis, clinching a 1-0 victory in double-overtime. Graduate student Annabelle Abbott scored the decisive goal in the 107th minute, while East Carolina’s goalkeeper Maeve English made five saves during this critical match.
For East Carolina, graduate student Sydney Schnell is the standout player this season, currently leading the team with seven goals and 17 points. Historically, South Carolina has had a strong performance against East Carolina, winning all eight previous matchups, with the last victory being a 2-0 result at Stone Stadium in 2022.
Fans attending the NCAA Tournament game can find parking options at city metered spots, the Roost parking lot, and the parking lot at the indoor tennis facility. Tickets for the game can be purchased online.
FAQ
What academic achievement has the South Carolina women’s soccer team accomplished?
The team achieved a GPA of 3.66 and has been recognized on the United Soccer Coaches College Team Academic Award list for the 22nd time in 24 seasons.
When does the South Carolina women’s soccer season begin?
The season kicks off on Thu., Aug. 14, at 7 p.m. against College of Charleston.
Who will South Carolina face in the NCAA Tournament?
The Gamecocks will face East Carolina in the first round of the NCAA Women’s Soccer Tournament on Fri., Nov. 15, at 6 p.m.
What is the historical record of South Carolina against East Carolina?
South Carolina has never lost to East Carolina, winning all eight previous matchups.
Where can fans purchase tickets for the NCAA Tournament game?
Tickets for the game can be purchased online.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Academic Achievement | GPA of 3.66; 22nd award in 24 seasons |
| Season Kickoff | Aug. 14 at 7 p.m. vs. College of Charleston |
| NCAA Tournament Matchup | No. 3 seed vs. East Carolina on Nov. 15 at 6 p.m. |
| Historical Record | 8-0 against East Carolina |
| Ticket Information | Available for purchase online |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- South Carolina Women’s Soccer Team Academic Honor
- Shelley Smith Unveils 2025 Season Schedule
- Women’s Soccer Hosts No. 13 Auburn
- Duke Defeats No. 21 South Carolina
- Google Search: South Carolina Women’s Soccer
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