2025 Women's Soccer Preview

Erik Holth, CBC Sports Information Director

            Conway, Ark. – Opening up a new season at a new facility, Central Baptist College women's soccer kicks off the 2025 season tomorrow when they host the Golden Lions of the University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff. Kickoff from the brand-new Conway Soccer Complex is scheduled for 5 p.m.

            "Practice has been going well," said third year head coach Thabo Masoga. "We structured training so that the first week, we could get used to the temperature. The second week, we started two-a-days, working harder to the point where we are kind of cruising right now in terms of fitness. Tactically, we are very intelligent and the players understand what we want."

            CBC went 0-11-1 last season and dealt with injuries a lot of last season. This year, they return eight players with a lot of experience, including AMC second team and all-tournament selection Kitanna Richards and her co-captain, Sierra Victory. Also returning are goalkeeper Rebecca Vandenburg, defender Elise Lockton, midfielders Peyton Siebenmann, Myndy Zamora and Karis Guthrie and forward Jaycee Suarez. "Kitanna and Sierra have provided invaluable leadership," added Masoga. "Kitanna has set a high standard and if the whole squad can match that standard, we will be a team to contend with for sure. Sierra's organizational skills are great. It's like having an additional assistant coach out on the field."

            Four newcomers look to add depth and talent to an experienced squad. Utility player Emely Lopez joins Bethany Massey, a forward who can also play defense, defender Cameron Watson and goalkeeper Avery Mulloy. "All four of these girls are getting it," added Masoga. "They are adjusting really quickly. Emely is super technical and she's going to be one to watch. I don't think she knows how good she is. Bethany is very hard working and very coachable. Avery has given Rebecca a challenge in goal and we want good competition for each spot."

            The Mustangs were picked to finish sixth in a very talented American Midwest Conference. CBC has the benefit of playing their first three matches at home and not competing in a conference match until Oct. 4. "Our conference is pretty competitive," said Masoga. "We have to play against teams that challenge us in every single contest. Every team in our non-conference schedule will help us be ready for conference play."

            10 games will be played at the new Conway Soccer Complex this season. "The players are excited for the new facility," added Masoga when asked about the first season at a new place after playing at Burns Park last year. "It's closer to campus and it will be beneficial for us to have the support of our student body at each contest. It's been a blessing and we thank God for it."

            Come out and support the Mustangs this season!