<span style=

“font-size: 14pt;”>The UNA women’s soccer team wrapped up another

successful season in 2010 with an NCAA tournament appearance before

losing to the University of Tampa in overtime. The team built upon

its previous year’s success by posting a 16-4-1 record this season.

This year was the Lions’ second ever trip to the NCAA tournament

after making their first ever appearance last season.

The Lions

finished second in the Gulf South Conference in both the regular

season and in the GSC tournament to West Florida who were the

Lions’ only conference losses this season. The Lions remarkably

avoided being shut out this season while posting an impressive 6-1

home record.

A key to the

Lions’ success was the stellar play of their All-Americans, Chloe

Roberts and Nikki Brown. This year was the English sophomores’

second consecutive year to be named to the Division II All-American

team. Roberts was selected to the first team after recording 28

goals and 11 assists. Brown lead Division II with 16 assists en

route to a second team selection.

Another

contributing factor to the Lions’ success this season was a staunch

defense. Spearheaded by All-Region goalkeeper Alex McKay and

All-Region defender Julia Osmond, UNA kept 10 clean sheets and only

allowed one goal in four other matches.

Head Coach

Graham Winkworth has reason to be optimistic about next year as

well. His team is expected to return everyone next season, as there

are no seniors on this year’s squad. With another season of

experience, his squad should not lack leadership next

season.

The Lions could

also benefit from a strong recruiting class if Winkworth is able to

bring in talent from both sides of the pond like he has the last

two years.

An important

hurdle faced by UNA next year is finishing ahead of their

conference rival, West Florida, which they have been unable to do

in the previous two seasons. However, this task may be easier next

season with the departure of the Division II National Player of the

Year, Shakira Duncan.

The 2010 Lions

soccer team reached several milestones and laid a foundation for

future success. Coach Winkworth has built a strong program, and a

serious run at a Division II national title is not unattainable

next season.