Great Lakes Wire

The Northern Michigan University women's soccer team is preparing to face the Purdue Northwest Pride in the first round of the GLIAC playoffs. The match will take place on Monday at 1 p.m. in the Superior Dome.

The Wildcats secured their position as the top seed after defeating Michigan Tech 1-0 on Thursday. They hold a record of 13-1-4 overall and 9-1-4 in conference play. Meanwhile, Purdue Northwest enters as the eighth seed with a record of 2-13-3 overall and 0-12-2 in the conference.

Should NMU win, they will host the rest of the GLIAC tournament starting Friday, November 10, with finals scheduled for Sunday, November 12.

The Wildcats' success this season includes capturing their first-ever GLIAC regular season title. Molly Pistorius has been instrumental, leading with ten goals and 24 points, tying for second in shots and game-winning goals within the conference. Forward Hannah Kastamo also stands out with six goals, five assists, and is among the top players in several categories.

Stephanie Trujillo has contributed significantly with five goals and four assists. Goalkeeper Jillian Thompson leads in shutouts across GLIAC and holds an NMU record for most shutouts in a season.

NMU's defense has been strong, outscoring opponents 32-8 and maintaining an unbeaten home streak over recent matches. Under coach Jon Sandoval, they have made two GLIAC championship appearances and one NCAA tournament appearance.

Purdue Northwest has faced challenges this season, currently at the bottom of several statistical categories within GLIAC play. Kaci Pampreen leads her team with five goals and three assists over 17 games. The Wildcats have maintained a nine-game winning streak against Purdue Northwest.