The Suffolk University women’s soccer team is off to a strong start this season, currently holding an undefeated record of 4-0-1 with zero goals allowed.
The Rams had their home opener Sept. 9, clinching the 5-0 win against Rivier University. This record is similar to last season’s, when the team went undefeated for the first six games in the regular season.
Head coach Ellin McDougall spoke about the team’s early success and what factors she believes has led the players to this point already.
“We’ve gotten a couple transfers and freshmen that have come in full stride that were prepared and ready to go. We also have a really great foundation in terms of culture and leadership,” said McDougall.
In situations such as shutouts, she said, it’s a team win, making for better team chemistry and more wins.
“I think the willingness to defend and attack, the camaraderie, the togetherness and that foundation of that leadership blended with that new, incoming talent has made for a good mix so far,” said McDougall.
For junior captain Avery Porter, preseason training helped her and her teammates prepare for the past few weeks, which has contributed to their success.
“Preseason is by definition, difficult, so getting to push through that adversity with your teammates is a bonding experience unlike any other. It’s allowed us to come into the season prepared, but also allowed us to grow closer as a team,” said Porter.
Porter and fellow junior Isa Peraza were named co-captains at the beginning of the 2025 spring season, which gave them time to adjust to the role.
With the bulk of the conference games approaching soon, Porter believes the team must continue to improve in order to be successful.
“Everyone on the team has the desire to improve and for the team to improve, which makes for an incredible environment and allows us to continue progressing. Most importantly, we believe in having fun, which I believe is the true recipe for success,” Porter added.
Freshman goalkeeper Arden Rose talked about her first collegiate season with Suffolk and how that experience has been so far.
“There’s definitely a different intensity coming from high school to college, you’re here for a reason and you have a job. I think it’s been a good transition, stepping into a more serious environment has been nice,” said Rose.
Regarding the zero goals the team has let up, Rose discussed how that experience has been for her as a goalie, ultimately saying it’s been a team effort.
“I think it’s just been the team as a whole, from our forwards pressing to our back line putting in the work, but it’s been nice to have such a successful start to the season,” said Rose.
Rose, a sports management major from Fremont, California said that if the team lacks something, it is definitely not team chemistry.
“All the upperclassmen are all super uplifting so it’s made me play a lot more confident and relaxed,” said Rose.
The Rams’ next test is a home showdown against the 1-1-1 Lesley University Lynx Sept. 17, at 7 p.m. at East Boston Memorial Park.
