#9 Daytona State Women’s Soccer Makes History: Wins Southeast District Championship and Earns Bid to National Tournament

Daytona Beach, FL – The Daytona State College (15-3) women's soccer team has made history by clinching the NJCAA Southeast District Championship with a commanding 4-0 victory, securing their spot in the upcoming national tournament. This win marks a significant milestone for the program and highlights the team's success throughout the season.

The Falcons displayed their dominance on the field, displaying exceptional teamwork and skill against their opponents. With a strong offense and a steadfast defense, Daytona State was able to maintain control of the game from start to finish. The team's four goals were a demonstration to their relentless pursuit of success and their commitment to excellence.

Alyse Then would get the scoring started for the Falcons in the 23^rd minute of play off a free kick taken by Yuna Demir. Less than a minute later, Shaneil Buckley would thread a beautiful ball through the Titan defense to Jimena Castro for a quick second goal. The Falcons would head to halftime with a 2-0 lead over the Titans.

Daytona State would keep the pressure up early in the second half, scoring an insurance goal in the 56^th minute when Madison Gellner would be played in behind the Titan defense and send a well timed cross into Buckley on the back post. Buckley would complete her night with a second goal in the 76^th minute from a ball played through by Then.

Buckley would score two goals and one assist, good for five points on the night and Then with three points on the night.  This would mark Buckley's 17^th goal of the season and eighth assist.

"This championship is a culmination of our players' dedication, perseverance, and passion for the game," said Head Coach Hope Clark. "I could not be prouder of this team for their performance today and throughout the season. They have worked incredibly hard to achieve this goal, and they deserve every bit of this success."

The Falcons have scored 77 goals on the season and is currently ranked 8^th in the country in goals scored. Daytona State has won eleven straight games out scoring their opponents 58-2. Goalkeeper, Julianna Trujillo has a 0.57 GAA and has 46 saves on the year. The Falcon defense has earned 12 shutouts.

With this victory, the Daytona State women's soccer team will compete in the national tournament, a first in the program's history. This opportunity not only elevates the visibility of the program but also sets a precedent for future teams.

The national tournament will take place in Wichita, Kansas during November 17-23. Daytona State will await their seeding when announced on November 12 during the NJCAA D1 Women's Soccer selection show.

Photo Credit: Roberto Trujillo