WILMORE, KY -- Women's Soccer historic season came to a close in the NCCAA Mideast Championship Game at Asbury University. 

The game was slated for 7p but due to incoming weather, kick-off began at 5p. The Trailblazers went toe to toe with the Eagles with each side sharing opportunities to win during the 90 minute window. Early in the first half, Karissa Buttelwerth came the closest when her shot was saved by the keeper and it hit the crossbar. In the second half, the Eagles had a chance from inside the 6 yard box but Isabel Ruff stood strong to make the save. The match ended 0-0 and went into two 10-minute golden goal periods as the weather continued to pour snow onto the field. Neither team could score resulting in a penalty kick shootout. It wasn't meant to be as Asbury scored 3 pk's and Ohio Christian 2 pk's. 

"I'm extremely proud of this team," said Head Coach Beth Arroyo. "This team has gone the distance. PK's are a tough way to lose, but the women left it all on the pitch during the game. Considering where we were 1 and 2 years ago, the players worked hard to change women's soccer at Ohio Christian. Not only did we break many records, we did it in a way where work ethic outshines any individual stats. The ladies worked so hard this season and although we came up short in the championship game, we can leave the field with heads high, proud of our accomplishments. This is a special season and will always be remembered."

Despite a heart-breaking loss in the finals, the 2024-2025 Women's Soccer program cemented themselves in the record book by breaking several long-standing records, including finishing in the top 10 power rankings in the NCCAA D1. The Trailblazers also continued their theme of clean sheets by not conceding a regular time goal to Asbury making it 13 clean sheets from a possible 16 games throughout the season. 

What's next for Women's Soccer? The Trailblazers will take time away to rest and refocus and come back in the spring prepared to make another run to the National Tournament. This officially bids farewell to Elizabeth Grooms, Katie Walker, Karissa Buttelwerth, Isabel Ruff, Syerra Metzler and Maria Weaver. We are proud of our seniors and their contributions to the Trailblazer program. Go Blazers!

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