Great Lakes Wire

Northern Michigan University's women's soccer team, ranked No. 8, is set to host the first two rounds of the NCAA Midwest Regional tournament. The Wildcats will face Maryville University on Friday, November 19, at 1:00 p.m. This marks the first time NMU will host a round of the NCAA tournament and their third appearance in program history.

NMU previously faced Maryville in last year's tournament opener, losing 0-1. They aim to reverse that outcome on their home field this year.

For media access requests regarding the matches, contact Braden Golisek or Zach Nicholas via email.

The tournament schedule includes Grand Valley versus McKendree at 10:00 a.m., followed by NMU against Maryville at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, November 17. The Sunday matchups are yet to be determined.

Jon Sandoval, head coach of NMU's team, stated, "We are making sure we can prepare them the best way possible for this weekend."

Maryville enters as GLVC Regular Season Champions with a record of 10-1-2. They defeated Missouri S&T in the quarterfinals but lost to Lewis University in penalties during the semifinals after a goalless draw.

Senior midfielder Lexi Gentry was named GLVC Offensive Player of the Year and led her conference in assists while ranking third in points. Head coach Lori Lawson received GLVC Coach of the Year honors.

The Saints have outscored opponents 44-10 this season and boast several players on All-GLVC teams. Goalkeeper Gigi Yurevich has maintained a strong defensive record with an average goals-against rate of 0.51.

NMU's Wildcats were crowned both GLIAC Post-Season and Regular Season champions for the first time in their history. They hold an unbeaten home streak since September 2021 with a record of 21-0-6.

Forward Molly Pistorius was awarded GLIAC Offensive Player of the Year with notable contributions including leading her team with goals and assists totaling 32 points. Defender Maria Storm earned Defensive Player of the Year honors for her consistent performance throughout all matches.

Coach Jon Sandoval was recognized as GLIAC Coach of the Year after leading his team to significant victories and maintaining an impressive home record under his leadership.

In their recent victory securing their first-ever GLIAC Championship title, NMU won against Wisconsin-Parkside with Brenna Musser scoring her first goal of the season for a decisive win.