Women's Soccer to Open 2024 Season with Friendly Against Carolina Ascent

COLUMBIA, SC – South Carolina women’s soccer will officially hit the pitch for the first time this season, facing Carolina Ascent FC for an exhibition game on Monday, Aug. 5 at 7:00 p.m. in Stone Stadium.

“We are looking forward to this match-up and helping Carolina Ascent prepare to begin their inaugural season later this month,” head coach Shelley Smith said. “This is early in our preseason but will be a great test for us. We have more depth than ever as a team and these opportunities allow us to find the best combinations of players before we start the regular season. We are also excited to be playing at home and seeing the Gamecock fans again as we proudly kick off the fall sports season at Carolina!”

The matchup will be the first game against a professional team in program history.

“This is an important game for us in our preparation for the start of the season,” head coach of Carolina Ascent Philip Poole said. “We are lucky to be able to come to Columbia and face one of the best sides in women’s college soccer. Shelley (Smith) is known for developing elite college athletes and preparing them to be successful in professional soccer. We are excited to play against these high-level players. I love that we have so much support for our team throughout the Carolinas and am looking forward to a great game.”

About Carolina Ascent FC:

Carolina Ascent FC is one of the eight initial markets of the USL Super League, a new Division One professional women’s soccer league set to kick off in August 2024. Carolina Ascent is reaching new heights for women’s soccer. The team will play all home games at the historic American Legion Memorial Stadium. For information on club news, season tickets and more, visit carolinaascent.com.

Fan Info:

Admission to the game will be free, and Gamecock fans will be able to utilize free parking in the grass lot located behind the Athletics Village Parking Garage (1300 Heyward Street). Fans will also have the option to park at any of the City of Columbia metered spots located around Stone Stadium (subject to fees required through the ParkMobile app). The Athletics Village Parking Garage will not be available.