The University of Wisconsin‑Green Bay women’s soccer program reached a milestone this week. For the first time in its 39‑year history, the Phoenix will host a Horizon League tournament game on their home field at Santaga Stadium. The semi‑final against Indiana University‑Indianapolis is scheduled for Wednesday at 4 p.m., and the university is inviting students to attend with complimentary pizza.
Historic Achievement for a Program Once Struggling
Coach Matt Kagan, now in his second season at the helm, highlighted the significance of the occasion. “It’s the first time in the history of the women’s soccer program here at Wisconsin‑Green Bay to host a Horizon League tournament game. So it’s a big deal for our program,” he said.
The Phoenix entered the season with a reputation for adversity. The program, founded in 1987, endured years with only a handful of victories. This year, however, the team posted a 12‑2‑4 record, a dramatic turnaround that Kagan attributes to hard work, disciplined coaching, and a renewed commitment to family‑centered values.
Player Voices on the Journey
Team captain Becca Stoeckmann reflected on the progress. “I came here when we were really fighting for even three wins during a conference season, and to be able to get so many consecutive wins this year has just really meant a lot. It shows we are a winning team and that hard work pays off,” she said.
Senior forward Aixa Helbringer‑Escobar added, “We went from having three wins to making it to the championship final and now hosting. It means a lot to know that the hard work pays off and we get to share this moment with our fans.”
Another captain, Nell Smith, expressed excitement about the home‑field advantage. “It’s amazing to see the energy of the fans here. Playing on our own field with a supportive crowd is a blessing for our families and the community.”
Community Invitation and Campus Spirit
The university is actively encouraging the campus and the broader Northeast Wisconsin community to attend. In addition to free pizza for students, extra bleachers are being installed to accommodate a larger crowd. Organizers stress that a lively home crowd can boost the team’s performance and showcase the university’s commitment to supporting its student‑athletes.
Local businesses and alumni have also voiced support, noting that the event highlights the university’s role as a pillar of the community. “Seeing our women’s soccer team succeed brings pride to Green Bay families and reinforces the importance of strong, faith‑based institutions,” said a longtime supporter.
Looking Ahead
If the Phoenix prevail against Indiana University‑Indianapolis, they will advance to the Horizon League championship game, potentially earning a berth in the NCAA tournament. Regardless of the outcome, the historic hosting opportunity underscores the program’s resurgence and the power of perseverance rooted in traditional family and community values.
Fans are invited to arrive early, enjoy the free pizza, and cheer on the Phoenix as they make history on their home turf.
Original reporting: FOX 11 WLUK Green Bay (local) — read the source article.
