ERIE, Pa. – The Gannon University women’s soccer team, under the guidance of long-time head coach Colin Petersen, has consistently showcased its prowess in collegiate soccer. Over the past four years, the team has made a notable impact, qualifying for the NCAA Tournament each season and maintaining an impressive average of 15 victories annually.
As the 2025 season approaches, the Golden Knights are poised to continue their strong performance, returning a wealth of talent. Last year, the team finished with a record of 16 wins, 2 losses, and 4 ties, clinching the PSAC West regular season crown with an undefeated conference record of 10-0-4. However, the PSAC championship has remained elusive, as Gannon’s hopes were dashed in the semifinals by Kutztown, a team they had reached the championship against in the previous two years.
Following the PSAC semifinals, the Golden Knights rebounded by triumphing over Frostburg State in the NCAA Atlantic Regional. They later exacted revenge on Kutztown, winning 3-2 in a thrilling encounter. Unfortunately, their postseason run concluded with a narrow 1-0 defeat against Shepherd in the Atlantic Regional Championship.
This year, Petersen has unveiled a challenging schedule, setting the stage for another competitive season as Gannon aspires for a fifth consecutive NCAA Tournament appearance. “Our schedule for this year is going to be a terrific challenge,” Petersen stated. He emphasized the toughness of the PSAC, highlighting that teams are expected to put up fierce competition: “There is no easy game.” Additionally, the inclusion of Adelphi University in their schedule adds significant strength to their lineup.
2025 Season Schedule Overview
The season kicks off with a familiar matchup, as the Golden Knights face Charleston (WV) and Concord, marking the fourth consecutive year they start against these Mountain East Conference teams. Their opening match against Charleston is set for Thursday, September 4, where Gannon seeks to replicate their success from the previous year, when they secured a 3-1 victory. Charleston completed the last season with a 16-6-0 record and made it to the MEC Championship.
Gannon will then travel to Concord on Saturday, September 6, where they aim to continue their winning streak after having defeated the Mountain Lions 1-0 last season. Concord wrapped up their 2024 season with an 11-7-1 record.
Home and Away Matches
The Golden Knights will make their home debut at McConnell Family Stadium on Saturday, September 13, against California (Pa.), during Homecoming Weekend. This match will kick off PSAC West play and will be followed by a game against Roberts Wesleyan on September 16, marking their first encounter since 2021.
After this two-match homestand, Gannon will embark on a challenging road stretch of three consecutive matches against PSAC West opponents. This series begins on September 20 at Seton Hill, followed by a crucial rivalry match against Edinboro on September 24 and concluding with a bout against Pitt-Johnstown on September 27.
PSAC Divisional Play
The first half of the PSAC divisional play culminates with two home games followed by an away match. Gannon will face Slippery Rock on October 1 and Indiana (Pa.) on October 4, with their divisional play closing at Clarion on October 8. In the second half of the season, Gannon will meet its Western Division rivals again, with a notable match against Adelphi scheduled for October 12, revisiting the Elite Eight contest from the previous year, which Adelphi won 1-0.
As the season progresses, the Golden Knights will continue to strive for excellence, culminating in the regular season finale on November 5. The PSAC Tournament begins with the first round on November 8, leading up to the championship game on November 16. The highest remaining Eastern Division seed will host the Final Four.
