What's Happening?
Three Youngstown State women's soccer players have been recognized with All-Horizon League honors following a vote by the conference's head coaches. Junior Kate Makkas was named to the All-Horizon League First-Team,
marking the first time a Youngstown State player has achieved this distinction since 2014 and only the fourth in program history. Seniors Camille Bultel and Sara Felder both earned spots on the All-Horizon League Second-Team. This is the first instance since 2012 that Youngstown State players have received all-league honors in consecutive years. Makkas, a defender, contributed two goals and an assist in league play, including a game-tying goal against Northern Kentucky and a game-winner against IU Indy. Felder led the team with six overall goals, five of which were in Horizon League play, securing game-winning goals against Purdue Fort Wayne and Robert Morris. Bultel recorded two goals and five assists for a total of nine points, with a game-winner against Detroit Mercy. The No. 3 seeded Youngstown State is set to host No. 6 Wright State in the 2026 Horizon League Women's Soccer Championship Quarterfinals on Saturday, November 7, at Farmers National Bank Field.
Why It's Important?
This recognition highlights the growing competitiveness and individual talent within the Youngstown State women's soccer program. Achieving multiple All-Horizon League selections, especially a First-Team honor, can significantly boost the program's profile and recruiting efforts. For the individual athletes, these accolades can open doors for future opportunities, whether in professional sports or other career paths, by showcasing their dedication and skill. The success of these players also reflects positively on the coaching staff and the university's athletic department, potentially increasing fan engagement and support for the team. As Youngstown State prepares for the Horizon League Championship Quarterfinals, the momentum from these individual honors could translate into stronger team performance, potentially leading to a deeper run in the tournament and further elevating the program's standing within the conference.
What's Next?
Youngstown State, as the No. 3 seed, will host No. 6 Wright State in the 2026 Horizon League Women's Soccer Championship Quarterfinals. This match is scheduled for Saturday, November 7, with kickoff at 1 p.m. at Farmers National Bank Field. A victory in this quarterfinal match would advance Youngstown State to the semifinals of the tournament, bringing them closer to a potential Horizon League championship title. The performance of the recognized players—Kate Makkas, Camille Bultel, and Sara Felder—will be crucial in their team's pursuit of further success in the championship. Their continued strong play could be a deciding factor in the team's ability to progress through the tournament bracket. The outcome of this match will determine their immediate future in the postseason.
Beyond the Headlines
The achievement of these individual honors for Youngstown State women's soccer players extends beyond immediate athletic recognition. It signifies a potential shift in the competitive landscape of the Horizon League, indicating that Youngstown State is developing a stronger presence in women's soccer. Such sustained individual and team success can foster a culture of excellence within the athletic department, inspiring younger athletes and attracting more talent to the university. Furthermore, the visibility gained from these accolades can enhance the university's overall reputation, contributing to broader institutional pride and potentially impacting student enrollment. The long-term impact could include increased investment in athletic facilities and programs, creating a virtuous cycle of improvement and success for Youngstown State athletics.
