Sept. 8, 2009

COLUMBIA, S.C. – South Carolina makes its first appearance in the 2009 polls this week with a No. 18 ranking in the National Soccer Coaches Association of America poll, the organization announced Tuesday.

Under head coach Shelley Smith, the Gamecocks are 4-0 on the year and are one of five teams in the nation with four consecutive shutouts to open the season. South Carolina won the Courtyard by Marriott Airport Cardinal Classic last weekend with a 3-0 win over host Louisville and 4-0 win against Cincinnati as seven different players scored over the weekend. Always a strong defensive team, the Gamecocks have only allowed 22 shots in four games.

No. 18 South Carolina returns to the pitch this weekend at the Carolina’s Cup in Clemson, S.C. The Gamecocks will take on their rival Clemson Friday night at 7:30 p.m. They will face UNC Wilmington Sunday at 11:30 a.m. South Carolina will look to win the tournament for the third consecutive season.