Cal Lutheran women's soccer will begin its 2025 season tonight at home against Fredonia State.

The Regals, national champions two years ago in 2023, are coming off another impressive season in which they went 12-4-4 overall and 10-2 in the SCIAC, giving them seven straight seasons finishing in the top two in conference play. This led to the program's 16th NCAA Tournament appearance, where the Regals lost in the first round.

After graduating an accomplished senior class, including All-American defender Avery West, the Regals will need a combination of new and familiar faces to fill the void. Tessa French, Brynn McMahon, Hana Sawan, Ashley Escamilla, and Olivia Suarez lead the group of returners.

Defenders French and McMahon both logged over 1100 minutes last season. Sawan was named a captain despite being only a junior. Escamilla was named to the 2024 All-SCIAC team, and Suarez led the team with six goals last year.

Returning forwards Jessica Sprouse, Riley Cardenas, and Anna Evenson are also names to watch on the attacking end. Evenson collected three goals last season.

An exciting freshmen class is expected to contribute heavily along with JUCO All-American transfer Isabel Turner from Santa Monica College.

The Regals have a tough schedule, but they are no strangers to that. After hosting Fredonia State and Whitworth this weekend, they will travel up to Washington for a couple games. Upon returning, they have a showdown with Division-II Westmont before beginning SCIAC play with battles against top conference foes Pomona-Pitzer and CMS.

When asked about his roster, Head Coach Frank Marino revealed, "I really like the mix of strong returners with the influx of new, young players that can be impactful early in their careers."

The Regals take on Fredonia State under the lights tonight at 7pm in William Rolland Stadium.