Following their preseason win against Northwood University and fall to the University of Findlay, the Grand Valley State University women’s soccer team had their first official match on Sept. 5 against the Ashland University Eagles. The game marked the Lakers’ first official win of the season.
The first half of the match started off with Ashland controlling the field. The Laker defense held strong against Ashland’s offense. Ashland had a total of three shots on goal with the Laker’s defensive line saving two of these shots. Redshirt sophomore Isable Imes saved the third shot on goal. During the first half, the Lakers took on one foul, while Ashland took on two fouls. Both teams finished the half with no goals scored.
“I think we were a little nervous (playing in the first half) just because we ended Ashland’s season last year,” said head coach Katie Hultin. “We played a different formation at the beginning, which challenged us a little bit, but we definitely changed it up and played our game.”
After halftime, the Lakers improved their performance. Within the first three minutes of the second half, their first goal was made by senior midfielder Emma Chudik with an assist by freshman forward Sarah Fromm. Through the rest of the half, Ashland attempted another four shots, while the Lakers had five shots on goal. However, none of these shots resulted in a goal for either team.
The GVSU women’s team took on a total of seven shots with the defensive line saving six of those goals. Only one of these shots was on goal. Ashland took on eleven of Grand Valley’s shots, saving a total of five shots on goal.
The game ended in a 1-0 win for the Lakers, with the single goal scored by Chudik.
In 2023, Chudik tied with graduate forward Taylor Reid for most goals of the season with a total of five goals. Now, Chudik has started the 2024 season just as strong as her previous year.
“It feels amazing, like I have no words.” said Chudik.
Following the game, members of the team shared their feelings about starting the new season off with a win.
“It is just relieving,” said senior midfield Ryann Fetty. “We put so much work in, and for our first result to come out like this, it’s such a relief.”
Hultin emphasized the team’s passion to be victorious.
“We’re just passionate (and) we just want to win,” Hultin said. “We’ll do whatever it takes to do it (win).”
GVSU has been competing against Ashland University since 2002, with the Lakers dominating the field throughout the history of the rivalry. After the Sept. 5 game, the Lakers’ dominance was not upstaged.
“Ashland is a very good team, (they’re) very talented,” said Hultin. “For us to go out and hold our own, play good soccer and create as many chances as we did, I’m really proud of them and really excited for what’s to come.”
The Lakers will take on Cedarville University at home on Saturday, Sept. 7, where the Lakers will present their alumni ceremony at half time.
