The Arizona Wildcats are entering the 2024-2025 season ready to make a name for themselves in the Big 12. Their record last season was 6-8-5 (3-6-2 in the Pac-12.) This season, as part of a new conference, the Wildcats will be traveling to the East Coast to play the best of the best. The Wildcats have already been picked 10th in the Big 12 preseason poll.
Arizona has 22 returning players and has added 10 new freshmen and two transfers. The Wildcats have already played four games and won two, keeping a 2-1-1 early record.
Fifth year Nicole Dallin was awarded Big 12 offensive player of the week, making her the first Wildcat to win an award in this new conference. Dallin was also named TopDrawerSoccer’s Player of the Week.
Dallin, Megan Chelf and Sarah Rice will be returning for their fifth year granted to them as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Wildcats have some experience playing Big 12 teams in the past under head coach Becca Moros, despite being in a different conference before this year.
Two new assistant coaches were added to the Wildcats’ coaching staff this summer: Philip Congleton and Nathaniel Gonzalez, who are replacing Lorraine Quinn and Brian Periman.
Offense:
The Arizona women’s soccer team thrives on aggressive, fast-paced offense, using quick transitions and sharp passing to create scoring chances. They have been showing off their talent early on, winning their first two games by more than two goals. Seven different players on the team have already scored goals in the past four games, including Dallin with five on the season.
Defense:
The Wildcats’ defense this year is about organization and effort. To stop attacks, a high defensive line is used to block space. Their well-organized defense and effective communication help close off passing lanes and stop scoring chances.
The Wildcats use pressure to force errors and are aggressive in their pursuit of victory in individual games. By tracking back and protecting the defense, defensive midfielders help to keep the team compact and difficult to break down.
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