The upcoming clash between Howard University and Hampton University in women’s soccer is more than just a game; it marks the inaugural HBCU Women’s Soccer Invitational. This significant event will take place at Audi Field, home to D.C. United, on Sunday.
Keri Geter, a defender for Hampton, expressed her enthusiasm about the competitive atmosphere and the venue. “When we played Howard my freshman year, a lot of people came to the game. It was my first time being under the lights with big crowds, and all the stands were filled,” she stated, adding that the experience at Audi Field promises to be even more electrifying.
This match comes on the heels of an initiative sponsored by D.C. United and DC Power Football Club, aimed at enhancing the visibility of women’s soccer at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). For many players, this will be their first opportunity to compete in a professional stadium.
Aside from the rivalry, the game stands as a vital moment for both institutions, showcasing their commitment to highlighting the potential of athletes at HBCUs. The victorious team will earn a practice session with DC Power FC, further incentivizing competitive spirit.
Jordan Stuart, co-owner and president of DC Power FC, emphasized the importance of this event. “We think it’ll be a great experience for their players to join our practice environment and see what it’s like to compete at a pro level,” he noted, highlighting efforts to redefine expectations regarding the transition from collegiate to professional sports.
Coaches see this event as a crucial opportunity for exposure. Scot Vorwold, entering his second season as head coach of Hampton’s women’s soccer team, expressed excitement for the match. He noted, “It’s a good stage for us to be on, and it’s going to give us visibility, not only for Hampton’s women’s soccer, but for HBCUs in general.”
Vorwold aims to increase recognition for HBCU women’s soccer and is optimistic that this invitational could evolve into an annual tradition, potentially becoming a multi-team, multi-day event in the future.
Geter pointed out the significance of competing in a high-energy environment. “The more competitive your environment is now is going to help you for the pro environment,” she explained, appreciating the emphasis on building up the women’s soccer program.
Howard’s head coach, Brent Leiba, mentioned that several key players from last year’s Northeast Conference championship squad will be participating in the invitational. He pointed out that this exposure is crucial for players aspiring to play professionally. “This really presents that stage and potential exposure,” he said.
Rachel Suttle, recognized as the Northeast Conference Defensive Player of the Year, shared her aspirations for a professional career, emphasizing the importance of visibility for players at HBCUs. “Even in the NIL space,” Suttle mentioned, “there’s just a lot more support in terms of getting the girls deals and the access to the possibility of going pro.”
Both Vorwold and Leiba share a vision for increasing the visibility of HBCU women’s soccer moving forward. “We’re hoping that we’ll gain more visibility for our sport and also our respective institutions and HBCUs,” Leiba added, underscoring the growth and potential of women’s soccer in the U.S.
