What's Happening?
The Old Dominion (ODU) women's soccer team defeated Georgia State 1-0 at the GSU Soccer Complex, earning them the Co-Regular Season Sun Belt Champion title and the second seed in the upcoming SBC Championships. The decisive goal was scored in the 16th
minute by Riley Mullen, assisted by Madison Telmer. This marks the first time the Monarchs have won the Sun Belt Regular Season Championship, with first-year head coach Will Roberts achieving back-to-back conference championships, having won with ULM last season. ODU's defense was particularly strong, holding Georgia State to zero shots on goal throughout the entire 90 minutes and securing their ninth clean sheet of the season. Goalkeeper Goodrich did not need to make any saves, improving her record to 8-5-2.
Why It's Important?
This victory is significant for the Old Dominion women's soccer program, marking their first Sun Belt Regular Season Championship. It highlights the immediate positive impact of first-year head coach Will Roberts, demonstrating his ability to build a winning team and secure conference titles. The team's strong defensive performance, culminating in a ninth clean sheet, underscores their competitive strength within the Sun Belt Conference. This achievement not only boosts the team's morale and profile but also positions them favorably for the upcoming SBC Championships, where they will enter as the second seed. For the university, this championship brings positive recognition and could attract future athletic talent, enhancing its sports programs.
What's Next?
Following their Sun Belt Regular Season Championship win, Old Dominion will proceed to the Sun Belt Championships, held in Foley, Alabama, from November 9-14. As the second seed, they will be looking to continue their successful run and compete for the tournament title. More information regarding their schedule and opponents in the championship is expected to be released. Georgia State, despite the loss, will also travel to Foley, Alabama, to participate in the 2026 Sun Belt Conference Women's Soccer Championship, with their next game scheduled against No. 5 South Alabama on November 9.
Beyond the Headlines
The success of the Old Dominion women's soccer team under a new coach, Will Roberts, suggests a potential shift in the competitive landscape of the Sun Belt Conference. Roberts's ability to secure back-to-back regular season championships with different teams indicates a strong coaching philosophy and strategic approach that could influence other programs in the conference. This achievement also highlights the growing competitiveness in collegiate women's soccer, where strategic coaching and robust team defense are proving to be critical factors for success. The Monarchs' performance could serve as a model for other teams aiming for rapid improvement and championship contention.
