Columbia, SC, August 5, 2025
News Summary
The South Carolina women’s soccer team has been recognized for its academic success, achieving a combined GPA of 3.66 for the academic year. This marks the team’s inclusion on the United Soccer Coaches College Team Academic Award list for the 22nd time in 24 seasons. Additionally, the team prepares for its upcoming season, including an exhibition match against Duke. The program, celebrating its 30th anniversary, has had remarkable achievements both academically and athletically, with Catherine Barry becoming the all-time leading scorer.
Columbia, SC – The South Carolina women’s soccer team has once again demonstrated academic excellence by being included on the United Soccer Coaches College Team Academic Award list for the 22nd time in 24 seasons. The team achieved an impressive combined GPA of 3.66 for the 2024-25 academic year, tying them with 414 women’s teams across all divisions that earned this honor.
This year, South Carolina is one of only 151 schools nationwide to have both their men’s and women’s soccer teams recognized on the academic award list, highlighting the university’s commitment to fostering an environment where student-athletes can excel in both academics and athletics.
The 2024 season marks the 30th anniversary of the South Carolina women’s soccer program and the 25th season under head coach Shelley Smith. The team is scheduled to kick off their season on Thursday, August 14, at 7 p.m. against the College of Charleston. In preparation, the Gamecocks will also host an exhibition match against Duke on Friday, August 8, at 6 p.m., which includes free admission at Stone Stadium.
In their recent tournament performance, the No. 14 ranked South Carolina women’s soccer team showcased their prowess by defeating East Carolina 6-0 in the first round of the NCAA Women’s Soccer Tournament on November 15. This victory propelled Catherine Barry to new heights as she scored two goals, making her South Carolina’s all-time leading scorer.
Prior to this success, the Gamecocks faced No. 21 Texas in the SEC Championship game but fell short with a score of 1-0, even though they outshot Texas 17 to 14. East Carolina had earlier secured their automatic NCAA bid after an upset victory over No. 19 Memphis in the American Athletic Conference championship. Sydney Schnell led East Carolina with seven goals and 17 points this season, but historically, the Gamecocks have dominated their encounters with East Carolina, winning all eight matchups to date.
Fans planning to attend the matches can park in designated City of Columbia metered spots, the Roost parking lot, or at the indoor tennis facility. Tickets for the games are available online, and updates can be followed through the team’s social media accounts or their official website.
Upcoming Events
- Exhibition Game: Duke – August 8, 6 p.m. (Free Admission)
- Season Opener: College of Charleston – August 14, 7 p.m.
Key Achievements
- Combined GPA: 3.66
- Ranked 14th in NCAA Women’s Soccer
- Catherine Barry – All-time leading scorer for South Carolina
Parking and Ticket Information
Parking is available in City of Columbia metered spots, the Roost parking lot, or at the indoor tennis facility. Tickets can be purchased online.
Fast Facts
- 22 out of 24 years on academic award list
- 30th season for women’s soccer program
- 25th season under head coach Shelley Smith
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Academic Honors | GPA: 3.66, 22nd award in 24 years |
| Team Rankings | No. 14 in NCAA Women’s Soccer |
| Upcoming Games | Exhibition: Duke (Aug 8), Season Opener: College of Charleston (Aug 14) |
| Historical Performance | Undefeated against East Carolina in previous matchups |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Savannah Noll’s Transition to USC Upstate Soccer
Deputy Athletics Director Charles Waddell Retires from Gamecocks
National Signing Day Celebrates Charlotte Student-Athletes
Additional Resources
- Gamecocks Online: Women’s Soccer Academic Honor
- SEC Sports: South Carolina Advances
- Gamecocks Online: NCAA Round One Matchup
- Wikipedia: South Carolina Gamecocks
- Encyclopedia Britannica: College Soccer
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