US College Championships Heat Up as England Stars Shine in Global Honors

This week in women’s soccer saw the intensity of collegiate competition ramp up across North America. The University women’s soccer championship kicked off in Hamilton, with teams like Cape Breton Capers securing the No. 4 seed, and collegiate programs such as Skidmore, Rochester Institute of Technology, and Franklin & Marshall preparing for pivotal tournament matches. In conference action, UTSA edged UAB 2-1 and South Florida advanced past Charlotte in the American Women’s Soccer Championship, while Stanford asserted dominance by defeating Cal to clinch the ACC championship. Meanwhile, the Mountain West named its 2025 Women’s Soccer All-Conference Teams, and tournament tickets for Ivy League women’s soccer went on sale, signaling surging interest and support.

On the international stage, the Women's World Cup qualifiers draw drew keen anticipation, especially for Ireland’s squad under coach Eileen Gleeson, as new pathways to the 2025 championship come into focus. In Europe, football legend Pia Sundhage’s departure as Switzerland’s coach—despite recent Euro 2025 success—ends a notable chapter but opens speculation about the future direction for the national team.

Recognition for the sport’s best continued, with six England internationals honored in FIFPRO's prestigious Women's World 11, underscoring England’s growing dominance and the global reach of elite players. Off the pitch, major NWSL administrative conversations were spotlighted as league leadership discussed restoring trust and navigating hot-button topics, while player advocacy drew headlines about gender inclusion policies, reflecting the evolving landscape of the women’s game.

With club expansion news, such as Denver Summit FC’s debut at a major venue, and outlets encouraging new fans to tune in, it’s clear this is a pivotal moment for women’s soccer, marked by competition, debate, and growing visibility.