Women’s soccer begins league play vs. Elon

Samantha Hodge at practice. Photo KB Carpenter

The Western Carolina Catamounts women’s soccer team will begin their Southern Conference play against Elon University on Friday, Sept. 21, at the Catamount Athletic Complex.

The Catamounts currently stand at a record of 3-3, defeating non-conference opponents Winthrop, Albany, and Tennessee Tech along the way.

Senior Catamount Samantha Hodge explained that the game against Elon is especially important because it is the first conference game and will set a tone for the rest of league play.

“The game is at home. Being in a league this competitive, it’s imperative we defend our home field,” said Hodge.

She stressed the importance of taking advantage of getting these wins in Cullowhee, because they are that much harder to get when playing on the opponent’s territory. A win against Elon will also help the Catamounts pursue their team goal of receiving a home game for the first round of the Southern Conference tournament, which requires finishing in the top four of the league.  The tournament begins October 28.