April 19, 2006

Columbia, S.C. – The past and present will reunite at Stone Stadium on Saturday afternoon (April 22) as the South Carolina women’s soccer team hosts the Alumni Game with kickoff set for 1 pm. As the USC women’s team closes out its spring schedule, the Gamecocks look forward to welcome back former players for this weekend’s match. The two teams are expected to play two 30-minute halves.

“We have had a great turnout every year for this event and it’s very rewarding to see former players come back and spend time with our current players,” said USC head coach Shelley Smith. “It establishes a nice tradition, there is a nice camaraderie between all the players and the older players get a chance to know the current squad. We stay in touch with many of our former players and it is nice to see them on campus for a weekend.

It’s a full weekend for the USC women’s soccer team as they also close out their spring schedule with a match on Sunday, April 23 against Georgia ODP. As the spring nears completion, head coach Shelley Smith is pleased with the Gamecocks and their work throughout the last couple months on the practice field and in the weight room.

“Our players have taken more ownership of the team and responsibility for improving their play,” said Smith. “They are doing what it takes to get better, working hard physically and improving their mindset of the game. With that they are building confidence and that will help as they try to maximize their potential. Our team knows that we were stronger last year then the results showed and understand the importance of consistent play.”