UCF Knights women's soccer

The UCF Knights women's soccer program represents the University of Central Florida in National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I. The Knights compete in the Big 12 Conference.[2] UCF plays home games on its main campus in Orlando, Florida at the UCF Soccer and Track Stadium.[3] The Knights are led by head coach and Olympic gold medalist Tiffany Roberts Sahaydak.[4]

UCF Knights women's soccer
Founded1981; 45 years ago (1981)
UniversityUniversity of Central Florida
Head coachTiffany Roberts Sahaydak (13th season)
ConferenceBig 12
LocationOrlando, Florida, US
StadiumUCF Soccer and Track Stadium
(capacity: 2,000)
NicknameUCF Knights
ColorsBlack and gold[1]
   
Home
Away
NCAA tournament runner-up
1981 (AIAW), 1982
NCAA tournament College Cup
1981 (AIAW), 1982, 1987
NCAA tournament Quarterfinals
1981 (AIAW), 1982, 1984, 1987, 1988, 2011
NCAA tournament appearances
1981 (AIAW), 1982, 1984, 1987, 1988, 1991, 1998, 1999, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2017, 2022, 2025
Conference tournament championships
1994, 1995, 1996, 1998, 1999, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2012, 2013
Conference regular season championships
1993, 1999, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2005, 2007, 2009, 2010, 2013, 2014, 2017, 2022

UCF has a storied history in women's soccer that includes 23 Conference Tournament or Regular Season Championships. The Knights have earned 24 AIAW and NCAA Tournament Appearances (2nd most in the state of Florida), which include 5 Elite Eight appearances, 2 Final Four appearances, an AIAW National Championship Game appearance (1981), and an NCAA National Championship Game appearance (1982). Twenty-three UCF players have earned various All-American honors, including three players who were honored as Consensus All-Americans (Mary Varas, Michelle Akers x4, Karen Ricther). Akers was also awarded the Hermann Trophy, and four other Knights players have been finalists or on the watch list for the award. Nine former UCF players have been selected for their respective countries' national teams, including four players selected to the U.S. Women's National Soccer Team. Two former UCF Players have won the FIFA Women's World Cup, and seven former Knights have appeared in FIFA Women's World Cup tournaments. Two former Knights have also played in the Olympics, with Michelle Akers winning Olympic Gold with the U.S. team in 1996. Twenty former UCF players have also played for various professional soccer teams around the world, including ten NWSL players.

History

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The Jim Rudy Era

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The UCF Knights Women's Soccer team first took the field in 1981 as an Independent, under the leadership of Jim Rudy. A Rollins College Men's Soccer alumnus, Rudy was the Coach of both the men's and women's side at UCF. He was known for his technical acumen as a coach, and his tactical wizardry in game planning. He was also one of the best coaches of goalkeepers at that time, with three of goalkeepers he coached going on to start for the U.S. Women's National Soccer Team. (Kim Wyant and Amy Allman at UCF; Briana Scurry at UMASS).

During his seven years as Coach, Rudy led UCF to five post-season appearances. This included two appearances in the Final Four of the NCAA Women's Soccer Tournament. In their first season of play, the Knights played in the AIAW Tournament (the women's national championship tournament before the NCAA recognized women's sports). UCF defeated Harvard in the Quarterfinal 2–0, then topped the University of Missouri-St. Louis in the Seminfinal 4–0, earning a berth in the AIAW Championship Game. In the final, UCF was defeated by the North Carolina Tar Heels 1–0.[5]

In the 1982 NCAA Tournament, the Knights qualified for a first round bye, then defeated UMASS in the second round for a score of 2–1. In the semi-final game, played in Orlando, UCF defeated UCONN by a score of 3–1. The 1982 Championship Game was played on UCF's home field, but the Knights fell to the North Carolina Tar Heels by a score of 2–0. This would be the first of 22 NCAA Championships won by the Tar Heels, under the leadership of legendary Coach Anson Dorrance. The Knights dominated the individual players awards in the 1982 tournament, with UCF players earning the awards of Offensive Player of the Tournament (Mary Varas), Defensive Player of the Tournament (Linda Gancitano), and the tournament's Most Valuable Player (Goalkeeper Kim Wyant).

Rudy's overall record at UCF was 73–22–6. He also coached several UCF players to All-American honors.[6][7] His best known and most accomplished player at UCF was the legendary Michelle Akers. Considered to be the best soccer player in UCF history (and one of UCF's best athletes of all time), Akers played for UCF from 1984 to 1988. During her career as a Knight, Akers scored 52 goals, 30 assists, and a team high of 134 points scored. In 1988, Akers was selected as the winner of the first Hermann Trophy (awarded to the best player in NCAA soccer for that season). Akers went on to a distinguished career with the U.S. Women's National Soccer Team, winning two Women's World Cups (1991, 1999) and an Olympic Gold Medal (1996). She was also selected by FIFA as one of the 100 Top Players in 20th Century Football (Soccer), one of only two women selected to that list (the other being Mia Hamm). Akers later returned to UCF as a Volunteer Assistant Coach.[8]

After leading UCF to the final four of the NCAA Tournament once again in 1987, Rudy left UCF to become the Head Coach of at UMASS.

The Bill Barker Era

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After Rudy's departure, UCF Assistant Soccer Coach Bill Barker took over both the UCF Men's and Women's Soccer programs. As an assistant coach under Rudy, Barker had helped to recruit and coach outstanding talent, and this continued under his leadership as Head Coach. He would lead the Knights from 1988 to 1992, earning an overall record of 50–18–9, and leading the Knights to two more NCAA tournament appearances. After his days as a coach were done, Barker would return to UCF to work as a Planning and Knowledge Management Coordinator for the UCF College of Medicine.[9]

During his tenure, Barker coached two future UCF Hall of Fame players: Kelly Kochevar and Karen Richter. Kochevar would score 53 goals during her time at UCF, making her the top goal scorer in program history. She would also score a hat trick in five different matches as a Knight, earning all-regional honors and selection to the Soccer America Freshman All-American Team.[10]

Karen Richter became one of the greatest goalkeepers in NCAA history, earning NCAA Goalkeeper of the Year honors in 1990. She was also a finalist for that year's Hermann Trophy. During her three years at UCF, she only allowed 30 goals to be scored, and secured 30 shutouts (both of which are UCF records). In her Junior year, she only allowed four goals in 14 games played.[11]

The Karen Richter Era

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After Bill Barker departed UCF for Georgia, former UCF player Karen Richter took over as head coach, and would lead the Knights from 1993 to 1998. She would also lead the Knights into their first conference, joining the Trans America Athletic Conference (later renamed the Atlantic Sun Conference) in 1993. Under Richter's leadership, the Knights would win four conference tournament championships and one regular season championship. She was named the TAAC Conference Coach of the Year in 1991, leading UCF to another NCAA tournament berth. Richter left UCF after the 1998 season to take over as the Head Coach at Auburn, and would go on to coach with U.S. Soccer's U16, U18, and U19 women's programs.[11]

The Amanda Cromwell Era

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Amanda Cromwell

After Richter's departure, Amanda Cromwell took over the UCF Women's Soccer Program, and would lead the Knights for the next fourteen seasons (1999–2012). Cromwell had been a standout player at the University of Virginia, had played on various professional squads, and made fifty-five appearances as a player with the U.S. Women's National Soccer Team. She had also been an Assistant Coach at Virginia and the Head Coach at UMBC before taking over the helm of UCF's program.

During her tenure with UCF, Cromwell led the Knights to an overall record of 224–83–26, which places her record in the top-30 all time in NCAA history. She led UCF to 11 NCAA tournament appearances (including the 2011 Elite Eight of the that year's tournament), nine conference championships (five tournament, four regular season championships), and eleven appearances in the top-25 rankings. This included a top-ten ranking in 2012 (#6); UCF's highest ranking in the polls in nearly two decades. Cromwell also coached 96 players who earned all-conference honors, 38 players who earned all-region selections, and several players recognized with various all-American honors.

UCF moved into Conference-USA in 2005, where the Knights record of success continued. The height of that success came in 2011, when the Knights posted 13-5-6 record and made a run to the Elite Eight round of the NCAA tournament. During the regular season, the Knights scored five wins over ranked teams, knocked rival Florida out of the second round of the tournament, and defeated North Carolina in the Sweet Sixteen before falling to Wake Forest in the Elight Eight.

In Cromwell's final season with UCF (2012), UCF earned fifteen shutout victories (conference and school single-season records) and placed in the top-10 nationally in goals against average and shutout percentage. They were also ranked in the top-25 in scoring offense and won-lost-tied percentage. In what would also be UCF's final season in Conference-USA, UCF earned the conference tournament championship and their 17th NCAA tournament appearance (the latter being the most all-time amongst all of Florida's NCAA women's soccer teams). Cromwell left UCF to take over the UCLA women's soccer program.[12]

The Tiffany Roberts Sahaydak Era

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The 2013 season saw major changes in the UCF Women's Soccer Program. UCF moved into the American Athletic Conference, and for the first time in fourteen years, the Knight's women's soccer program had a new Head Coach. Tiffany Roberts Sahaydak took over the Knights after a successful playing career and a tenure as Head Coach at VCU. Sayhadak's playing career saw her take part in winning two NCAA National Championships (at North Carolina), a pro league championship with the WUSA's Carolina Courage, as well as a Women's World Cup Championship and two Olympic gold medals with the U.S. Women's National Soccer Team. She was joined at UCF by her husband, former MSL Soccer Player Tim Sahaydak, as an Assistant Coach.

UCF's first two years in the American Athletic Conference saw the Knights win back-to-back conference titles, including an undefeated conference record in the 2013 season. The Knights also earned three straight NCAA tournament appearances, including an appearance in 2014's Sweet Sixteen round of the tournament. The 2016 season saw the Knights miss the NCAA tournament for the first time in ten seasons, but returned to success the following year with a conference title and a return to the NCAA tournament. UCF won the American conference title one more time in 2022 before transitioning to the Big 12 Conference for the 2023 season. Also in 2022, Coach Sahaydak spent a year as an assistant coach with the U.S. Women's National Soccer Team while retaining her position as UCF Head Coach.[13]

In 2025, the Knights recorded their most successful season since joining the Big 12, going 12-4-5 overall (5-1-5 in conference play). This included a 9-game unbeaten streak in Big 12 play, and multiple wins against ranked opponents. Ten UCF players scored goals during the season, led by the duo of Liz Worden and Rajanah Reed who scored or assisted on 20 of the 30 goals UCF scored during the season. Goalkeeper Genesis Perez Watson ranked in the top-20 nationally in save percentage, as she allowed only 16 goals and posted eight clean sheets on the season. The Knights made their 23rd NCAA Tournament appearance, defeating Maine in the first round before falling to Duke in the second round of the tournament.[14]

Championships and AIAW/NCAA Tournaments

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Conference Regular Season Championships
YearConferenceHead CoachRegular Season Conference Record
1993Trans America Athletic ConferenceKaren Richter5-1-0
1999Trans America Athletic ConferenceAmanda Cromwell8-0-1
2001Atlantic Sun ConferenceAmanda Cromwell9-1-0
2002Atlantic Sun ConferenceAmanda Cromwell10-1-0
2003Atlantic Sun ConferenceAmanda Cromwell9-1-0
2005Conference USAAmanda Cromwell8-1-0
2007Conference USAAmanda Cromwell7-1-1
2009Conference USAAmanda Cromwell10-1-0
2010Conference USAAmanda Cromwell8-1-2
2013American Athletic ConferenceTiffany Roberts Sahaydak8-0-1
2014American Athletic ConferenceTiffany Roberts Sahaydak8-1-0
2017American Athletic ConferenceTiffany Roberts Sahaydak7-0-2
2022American Athletic ConferenceTiffany Roberts Sahaydak7-0-1


Conference Tournament Championships
YearConferenceHead CoachTournament Championship Game
1994Trans America Athletic ConferenceKaren RichterUCF 2, FIU 0
1995Trans America Athletic ConferenceKaren RichterUCF 1, Campbell 0
1996Trans America Athletic ConferenceKaren RichterUCF 1, FIU 0
1998Trans America Athletic ConferenceKaren RichterUCF 1, Jacksonville 0
1999Trans America Athletic ConferenceAmanda CromwellUCF 4, Jacksonville 1
2001Atlantic Sun ConferenceAmanda CromwellUCF 2, Florida Atlantic 1
2002Atlantic Sun ConferenceAmanda CromwellUCF 3, Jacksonville 2
2003Atlantic Sun ConferenceAmanda CromwellUCF 4, Stetson 1
2012Conference USAAmanda CromwellUCF 2, Tulsa 0
2013American Athletic ConferenceTiffany Roberts SahaydakUCF 1, SMU 0


AIAW/NCAA Tournaments
YearTournamentHead CoachNotes
1981AIAW TournamentJim RudyTournament Runner-Up
1982NCAA TournamentJim RudyTournament Runner-Up
1984NCAA TournamentJim RudySecond Round
1987NCAA TournamentJim RudyFinal Four (Semifinals)
1988NCAA TournamentBill BarkerSecond Round
1991NCAA TournamentBill BarkerFirst Round
1998NCAA TournamentKaren RichterFirst Round
1999NCAA TournamentAmanda CromwellSecond Round
2001NCAA TournamentAmanda CromwellFirst Round
2002NCAA TournamentAmanda CromwellFirst Round
2003NCAA TournamentAmanda CromwellFirst Round
2004NCAA TournamentAmanda CromwellSecond Round
2007NCAA TournamentAmanda CromwellSecond Round
2008NCAA TournamentAmanda CromwellSecond Round
2009NCAA TournamentAmanda CromwellSecond Round
2010NCAA TournamentAmanda CromwellSecond Round
2011NCAA TournamentAmanda CromwellElite Eight (Quarterfinals)
2012NCAA TournamentAmanda CromwellSecond Round
2013NCAA TournamentTiffany Roberts SahaydakFirst Round
2014NCAA TournamentTiffany Roberts SahaydakSweet Sixteen
2015NCAA TournamentTiffany Roberts SahaydakFirst Round
2017NCAA TournamentTiffany Roberts SahaydakFirst Round
2022NCAA TournamentTiffany Roberts SahaydakFirst Round
2025NCAA TournamentTiffany Roberts SahaydakSecond Round

Rivalries

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University of South Florida (the War on I-4)

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The UCF Knights have had a long-time rivalry with the University of South Florida Bulls, whose campus is 90 miles from Orlando in Tampa. This rivalry, known as "the War on I-4" (named for the interstate highway that connects Orlando and Tampa), has encompassed all sports played by both schools, but it has been just as intense in women's soccer as it has in any other sport played by the two rival universities.

When UCF and South Florida were both members of the American Athletic Conference, both schools developed an all sports "War on I-4" trophy that would be awarded to one of the two schools on an annual basis based on their head-to-head record in all sports played that year.

Although the Bulls won the first matchup between the two schools in 1998 by a score of 4–0, the Knights dominated the rivalry for almost twenty years after that first meeting. Between 2001 and 2013, the Knights won eight games in a row against the Bulls. During their first matchup as members of the American Athletic Conference in 2013, the two teams played a 0–0 draw, but the Knights defeated the Bulls over the next two seasons’ matchups. South Florida finally defeated UCF for the first time in nearly two decades on November 5, 2015, knocking the Knights out of that year's American Athletic Conference Women's Soccer Tournament.

Between 2015 and 2022, the Bulls would win five of the next seven games against the Knights, and the two teams would play three draws against one another. These matchups would often determine conference tournament seedings and tournament advancement. When the Knights moved to the Big 12 Conference starting in the 2023 season, the two schools agreed to continue the rivalry by playing non-conference matchups each year in alternating annual games in Orlando and Tampa. Since then, the Knights have won two of the past three games, the latest being a 4–1 victory over the Bulls in Orlando during the 2025 season.

UCF's all-time record against South Florida: 14-7-4[15]

University of Florida

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UCF's rivalry with the Florida Gators goes back to the 1990s, when the two teams began playing each other in alternating home-and-away matchups in 1995. The Gators dominated the Knights in the early years in the rivalry, winning the first eight matchups between the two schools before UCF earned its first victory over Florida in 2005. The two teams play each other most years in non-conference regular season matchups and have met several times in the NCAA tournament.

In recent years, the Knights have turned the tables on the Gators, with UCF dominating the rivalry since 2018. Florida has not defeated UCF in ten years (since 2016), with the Knights going 5-0-1 against the Gators between 2018 and 2025. The most recent matchup (played in 2025) saw the Knights take down the Gators on the latter's home field 1–0. This was the lowest margin of victory for UCF over Florida during that ten-year span, with the Knights winning by a two to three goal margin in all their other victories over the Gators during that period (with an overall goal differential of 13–2 in the Knights’ favor). Each of UCF's victories over Florida during this period have been shutouts, with the Gators only scoring against the Knights in the 2–2 draw played in 2024. Given geographic proximity and the passionate nature of the rivalry, the two schools will more than likely continue to play each other in most years going into the future.

UCF's all-time record against Florida: 8-14-2[16]

Stadium

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UCF Soccer and Track Stadium, home venue of UCF

The Knights play their home games at the UCF Soccer and Track Stadium, part of Knights Plaza, on the north end of UCF's main campus in Orlando, Florida. The soccer field is made of natural grass and measures 347 feet (106 m) x 200 feet (61 m).[17]

In 2011, the stadium was heavily renovated, boasting a 2,000-seat capacity with a new 1,475-seat stand, press box, 7,500 square feet (700 m2) clubhouse, restrooms and new entrance on the west side of the facility. The original 500-seat stand was retained as a visitors' stand.[18]

UCF's home field during an NCAA Tournament game against Maine, played on November 14, 2025.

Coaches

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Tenure Coach Seasons Record Pct.
1981–1987Jim Rudy772–23–6.713
1988–1992Bill Barker550–18–9.649
1993–1998Karen Richter664–44–9.547
1999–2012Amanda Cromwell14224–83–26.706
2013–presentTiffany Roberts Sahaydak13135–65–37.661
Totals 5 coaches 44 seasons 545–233–87 .680
Records are through the conclusion of the 2025 season.

Coaching Honors

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Karen Richter:

  • 1998 Trans America Athletic Conference Coach of the Year

Amanda Cromwell:

  • Conference-USA Coach of the Year (2009)
  • Soccerbuzz.com Southeast Region Coach of the Year (2005)
  • NSCAA Central Region Coach of the Year (2012)
  • National Intercollegiate Soccer Officials Association Coach of the Year (2004)

Tiffany Roberts Sahaydak:

  • 4x American Athletic Conference Coach of the Year (2013, 2014, 2017, 2022)

UCF Coaching Staff Collective Honors:

  • 2x American Athletic Conference Coaching Staff of the Year (2018, 2022)

(Main Source on Coaching Records Listed Above)[19]

Individual Player Honors and Awards

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UCF has produced a number of notable soccer stars, including two Women's World Cup Champions (Michelle Akers x2 and Amy Allman) and an Olympic Gold Medalist (Akers).[20] Akers and Kim Wyant were founding players on the United States women's national soccer team. Akers and Amy Allman helped them win the FIFA Women's World Cup in 1991, and Akers was one of the famed "99ers" who helped the U.S. win the 1999 Women's World Cup. Akers was also a key player who helped the U.S. win the 1996 Summer Olympics.[21] Her career was so distinguished that Pelé named her among only two female players (along with teammate Mia Hamm) on the FIFA 100 list of the greatest living soccer players in 2004.[21] In addition, Aline Reis, an All-American in her freshman year in 2008, was selected to the Brazil women's national football team for the first time in 2009, playing in a friendly against a local Brazilian team in July. Seven former UCF players have played in Women's World Cup tournaments, and two have played in the Olympics.[22][23]

Hermann Trophy

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The Hermann Trophy is the sport's oldest and most prestigious award (on par with college football's Heisman Trophy). It has been awarded to one female collegiate soccer player every year since 1988.[24]

  • Michelle Akers (1988 Winner)
  • Karen Richter (1990 Finalist)
  • Aline Reis (2009 Watch List)
  • Tishia Jewell (2012 Watch List)
  • Marissa Diggs (2013 Watch List)

All-American Honors

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An All-American designation identifies elite youth or collegiate players recognized for outstanding performance, typically representing the top talent in the nation. In women’s college soccer, a consensus All-American is a player who earns first-team All-America honors from multiple major recognized organizations.

Consensus All-Americans:

  • Michelle Akers (4-time Consensus All-American)
  • Mary Varas
  • Karen Richter

All-Americans:

  • Nancy Lay: NSCAA First Team All-American
  • Pam Baughman: NSCAA First Team All-American
  • Michelle Sedita: NSCAA First Team All-American
  • Laura Dryden: NSCAA First Team All-American
  • Kim Wyant: NSCAA First Team All-American
  • Amy Allman: NSCAA First Team All-American
  • Jean Varas: NSCAA First Team All-American
  • Linda Gancitano: NSCAA First Team All-American; NSCAA All-American Reserve
  • Kelly Kochevar: NSCAA First Team All-American
  • Amy Jones: NSCAA First Team All-American; Soccer News Honorable Mention All-American
  • Becca Thomas: NSCAA First Team All-American; NSCAA Third Team All-American
  • Aline Reis: NSCAA Second Team All-American; Soccer America Freshman All-American
  • Tishia Jewell: NSCAA Third Team All-American
  • Marissa Diggs: NSCAA Second Team All-American; NSCAA Third Team All-American
  • Tatiana Coleman: NSCAA Second Team All-American
  • Vera Varis: United Soccer Coaches Association First Team All-American
  • Kendra Flock: NSCAA Freshman All-American; SoccerBuzz.com Freshman All-American
  • Jessica Hallgren: NSCAA Freshman All-American; SoccerBuzz.com Freshman All-American
  • Jennifer Montgomery: NSCAA Freshman All-American

Other National Recognitions

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  • Michelle Akers: 1987 Soccer America Player of the Year; 1988 Missouri Athletic Club Player of the Year
  • Amy Allman: 1987 NCAA Goalkeeper of the Year
  • Kelly Kochevar: 1989 Soccer America MVP
  • Karen Richter: 1990 NCAA Goalkeeper of the Year
  • Tishia Jewell: 2012 Senior CLASS Award

Conference Honorees

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Conference Player of the Year:

  • Amy Jones (1995 Trans America Athletic Conference)
  • Michelle Anderson (2001 Atlantic Sun/A-Sun Conference)

Conference Offensive Player of the Year:

  • Tishia Jewell (2010 Conference-USA)
  • Tatiana Coleman (2014 American Athletic Conference)
  • Carol Rodrigues (2015 American Athletic Conference)
  • Morgan Ferrara (2017 American Athletic Conference)
  • Kristen Scott (2022 American Athletic Conference)

Conference Defensive Player of the Year:

  • Courtney Baines (x3: 2003, 2004 Atlantic Sun/A-Sun Conference, 2005 Conference-USA)
  • Jennifer Manis (2007 Conference-USA)
  • Marissa Diggs (x2: 2012 Conference-USA, 2013 American Athletic Conference)
  • Carleigh Williams (2014 American Athletic Conference)
  • Saga Fredriksson (2016 American Athletic Conference)
  • Konya Plummer (2019 American Athletic Conference)

Conference Midfielder of the Year:

  • Becca Thomas (2009 Conference-USA)
  • Kayla Adamek (2018 American Athletic Conference)
  • Darya Rajaee (2021 American Athletic Conference)

Conference Goalkeeper of the Year:

  • Aline Reis (2010 Conference-USA)
  • Connie Organ (2014 American Athletic Conference)
  • Vera Varis (x2: 2017, 2018 American Athletic Conference)
  • Caroline DeLisle (x2: 2021, 2022 American Athletic Conference)

Conference Freshman/Rookie of the Year:

  • Jennifer Montgomery (2002 Atlantic Sun/A-SUN Conference)
  • Lena Petermann (2013 American Athletic Conference)
  • Dina Orschmann (2017 American Athletic Conference)

Conference Newcomer of the Year:

  • Danielle Dos Santos (2007 Conference-USA)

(Main Source on Players/Records Listed Above)[25]

All Conference Players

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All-conference is a prestigious postseason honor recognizing the best-performing players within a specific athletic league or conference, voted on by coaches. It highlights top talent (first, second, third, or freshman/rookie teams) for their performance that season.

YearFirst TeamSecond/Third TeamFreshman/Rookie Team
(Trans America Athletic Conference/Atlantic Sun Conference) (1993–2004)
1993Karen Drake, Kelly Kochevar, Amy GeltzHeather Grann, Stephanie Gringer
1994Heather Brann, Amy Geltz, Leslie Golden, Stephanie Gringer, Kelly KochevarAmy Jones, Dana Hoover
1995Leslie Golden, Amy Jones, Jennifer O'Connor, Kelly StoutMichele Harris, Alyssa O'Brien, Kim Shrum
1996Amy Jones, Leslie Golden, Danya Harris, Alyssa O'BrienMichele Harris, Karlyn DaPrato, Sara Kane
1997Danya Harris, Alyssa O'Brien, Kim ShrumMargrette Auffant, Wendy Wiltsey
1998Margrette Auffant, Alyssa O'BrienDanya Harris, Cally Howell, Sarah Pharr Leathers, Kim Shrum, Claire Kohake
1999Cally HowellMichelle Anderson, Brooke Asby, Margrette Auffant, Maria Banuls, Noelle Brown, Claire Kohake
2000Michelle Anderson, Cally Howell, Jackie VanLoovenClaire Kohake, Sarah McDonaldIda Edstrom
2001Michelle Anderson, Nicole Cieslak, Jackie VanLoovenBrooke AsbyAllison Blagriff
2002Nicole Cieslak, Jessica Kuhlman, Jennifer Montgomery, Jackie VanLoovenAllison BlagriffCourtney Baines, Jennifer Montgomery, Summer Savage
2003Allison Blagriff, Becca EshelmanCourtney Baines, Patty MacDowell, Jennifer MontgomeryMonique Fireall, Kate McCain, Shannon Wing
2004Courtney Baines, Allison Blagriff, Shannon Wing, Kendra FlockJennifer MontgomeryKendra Flock, Jessica Hallgren
(Conference-USA) (2005–2012)
2005Courtney Baines, Roberta Pelarigo
2006Roberta PelarigoNikki MooreBecca Thomas, Nikki Moore
2007Jennifer Manis, Hanna Wilde, Nikki MooreYvonne GeorgeChristina Petrucco
2008Nikki Moore, Becca ThomasYvonne George, Aline ReisStacie Hubbard, Aline Reis
2009Courtney Whidden, Becca Thomas, Nikki Moore, Aline ReisYvonne George, Bianca JoswiakBianca Joswiak, Nicolette Radovcic, Alex Brandt
2010Tishia Jewell, Aline ReisMarissa Diggs
2011Tishia Jewell, Marissa DiggsAline Reis, Stacie HubbardCarleigh Williams
2012Nicolette Radovcic, Marissa DiggsTishia Jewell, Madison Barney, Lianne MaldonadoSophie Howard
(American Athletic Conference) (2013–2022)
2013Tatiana Coleman, Marissa Diggs, Lena PetermannJennifer MartinKayla Adamek, Caroline Bado, Lena Petermann
2014Tatiana Coleman, Carleigh Williams, Connie OrganSophie Howard, Ashley Spivey, Jenn MartinSaga Fredriksson, Hannah DeBose
2015Kayla Adamek, Carol Rodrigues, Ashley SpiveyVera Varis
2016Carol RodriguesMorgan Ferrara, Saga FredrikssonZandy Soree
2017Vera Varis, Kathellen Sousa, Saga Fredriksson, Kayla Adamek, Morgan Ferrara
2018Stephanie Sanders, Vera VarisCarrie Lawrence, Dina OrschmannKristen Scott
2019Konya PlummerKristen Scott, Zandy SoreeCaroline DeLisle, Ally Gudorf, Ellie Moreno
2020Sarai LinderEllie Moreno, Madison MurninKatie Bradley, Sarai Linder
2021Caroline DeLisle, Darya Rajaee, Kristen ScottAriel Young
2022Caroline DeLisle, Dayanna Martin, Darya Rajaee, Kristen ScottGeorgia Eaton-CollinsMia Asenjo
(Big 12 Conference) (2023–Present)
2023Dayanna Martin
2024Chloe Netzel
2025Liz WordenGenesis Perez Watson, Honoka Hamano, Maria Tregansin, Rajanah Reed

UCF Athletics Hall of Fame Inductees

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Established in 1998, the UCF Athletics Hall of Fame honors former student-athletes, coaches, and contributors who achieved excellence in their sports or made significant contributions to the University of Central Florida's athletic programs. It recognizes decorated individuals who have left a lasting legacy on the Knights' history.

Players (Name and Year Inducted):

  • Michelle Akers (1998)
  • Amy Allman (1999)
  • Karen Richter (2000)
  • Kelly Kochevar (2008)
  • Kim Wyant (2010)
  • Aline Reis (2019)

Coaches (Name and Year Inducted):

  • Karen Richter (2000)
  • Jim Rudy (2001)

Note: Karen Richter was inducted for her UCF playing and coaching career achievements.

Knights on National Teams (Senior Teams)

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National teams are elite squads representing their country in international competitions like the FIFA Women's World Cup, the Olympics, and Confederation championship tournaments. They also play in other tournaments, such as the U.S. sponsored She Believes Cup tournament, as well as various international "friendlies" (a non-competitive, exhibition match played between club or national teams that does not count towards league standings or tournament rankings). Governed by national bodies, the members of these teams are selected from top athlete pools to compete at the highest level. The U.S. Women's National Soccer Team is the most successful of the world's national teams, having won four Women's World Cups and five Olympic soccer tournaments in their history.

Aline Reis
  • Michelle Akers: 155 caps; Women's World Cup 1991, 1995, 1999; Olympic Women's Soccer Tournament (1996); Two-Time Women's World Cup Champion (1991, 1999); Olympic Gold Medalist (1996)
  • Amy Allman: 24 caps; Women's World Cup 1991; Women's World Cup Champion (1991)
  • Kim Wyant: 9 caps
  • Linda Gancitano: 2 caps
Lena Petermann
  • Aline Reis: 15 caps; Women's World Cup 2019; Olympic Women's Soccer Tournament (2016, 2020-alternate)
  • Kathellen Sousa: 30 caps; Women's World Cup 2019, 2023
Konya Plummer
Kathellen Sousa

Knights in the Pros

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Various nations feature women's professional soccer (football) leagues (often referred to as "club leagues") that represent the highest professional level of the sport within that nation. Teams from various leagues will also often compete with teams from other leagues in their region to determine continental or regional championships.

Paris FC:

  • Tatiana Coleman

AS Saint-Étienne:

  • Kirsten Scott


A-Liga, Denmark

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HB Køge:

  • Georgia Eaton Collins

Fortuna Hjørring:


Kuopion Palloseura:

  • Vera Varis


Club America:

  • Dayana Martin


Division 1 Mellersta, Sweden

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Tyresö FF:

  • Michelle Akers

Malmö FF:


USL W-League, U.S./Canada

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Orlando Lions:

  • Michelle Akers
  • Kim Wyant

Long Island Lady Riders:

  • Kim Wyant

Ottawa Fury:

  • Ariel Young

Seasons

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Season Coach Record Notes
OverallConference
Independent
1981 Jim Rudy 11–3–0 AIAW Finals
1982 10–1–2 NCAA Finals
1983 4–4–2
1984 10–4–0 NCAA Second Round
1985 9–3–1
1986 15–3–1
1987 13–5–0 NCAA Semifinals (Final Four)
1988 Bill Barker 10–3–2 NCAA Second Round
1989 11–1–2
1990 9–4–3
1991 10–5–1 NCAA First Round
1992 10–5–1
Trans America Athletic Conference/Atlantic Sun Conference
1993 Karen Richter 8–7–1 5–1–0 TAAC Regular Season Champions
1994 13–5–1 5–1–0 TAAC East Division and Tournament Champions
1995 10–7–4 6–1–1 TAAC East Division and Tournament Champions
1996 13–7–1 6–3–1 TAAC Tournament Champions
1997 8–10–2 6–0–0 TAAC South Division Champions
1998 12–8–0 4–0–0 TAAC East Division and Tournament Champions; NCAA First Round
1999 Amanda Cromwell 16–6–1 8–0–1 TAAC Regular Season and Tournament Champions; NCAA Second Round
2000 8–11–1 7–2–0
2001 14–6–0 9–1–0 A-Sun Regular Season and Tournament Champions; NCAA First Round
2002 18–5–0 10–1–0 A-Sun Regular Season and Tournament Champions; NCAA First Round
2003 16–5–1 9–1–0 A-Sun Regular Season and Tournament Champions; NCAA First Round
2004 17–4–2 8–2–0 NCAA Second Round
Conference USA
2005 Amanda Cromwell 12–10–0 8–1–0 C-USA Regular Season Champions
2006 11–6–2 7–1–1
2007 15–4–4 7–1–1 C-USA Regular Season Champions; NCAA Second Round
2008 14–6–3 7–2–2 NCAA Second Round
2009 17–5–1 10–1–0 C-USA Regular Season Champions; NCAA Second Round
2010 16–5–3 8–1–2 C-USA Regular Season Champions; NCAA Second Round
2011 13–5–6 6–2–3 NCAA Quarterfinals (Elite Eight)
2012 17–5–2 8–3–0 C-USA Tournament Champions; NCAA Second Round
American Athletic Conference
2013 Tiffany Roberts Sahaydak 16–3–4 8–0–1 American Regular Season and Tournament Champions; NCAA First Round
2014 18–5–0 8–1–0 American Regular Season Champions; NCAA Sweet 16
2015 12–6–2 6–3–0 NCAA First Round
2016 9–8–2 4–4–1
2017 13–2–3 7–0–2 American Regular Season Champions; NCAA First Round
2018 10–7–1 6–3–0
2019 11–4–4 5–2–2
2020 2-4-1 2-4-1
2021 8-7-1 3-4-1
2022 9-2-7 7–0–1 American Regular Season Champions; NCAA First Round
Big 12 Conference
2023 Tiffany Roberts Sahaydak 10-7-1 5-4-1
2024 3-6-6 1-5-4
2025 12-4-5 5-1-5 NCAA Second Round
Totals 545–233–87 219–56–33 865 games (.680)
Records are through the conclusion of the 2025 season.

See also

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References

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  1. "Colors | University of Central Florida Brand Guide". Retrieved August 4, 2018.
  2. "American Announces Agreements With UCF, Cincinnati and Houston on Departure" (Press release). American Athletic Conference. June 10, 2022. Retrieved June 10, 2022.
  3. McMurphy, Brett. "Old Big East now American Athletic". ESPN. Retrieved April 4, 2013.
  4. "UCFKnights.com - (W) Soccer". www.ucfathletics.com. Archived from the original on January 2, 2012.
  5. "AIAW 1981 Championship Results" (PDF). AIAW Records. Retrieved January 1, 2026.
  6. "Jim Rudy". UCF Knights Athletics. Retrieved December 31, 2025.
  7. "Jim Rudy UCF Athletics Hall of Fame". UCF Knights Athletics. Retrieved December 31, 2025.
  8. "Michelle Akers". UCF Knights Athletics. Retrieved December 31, 2025.
  9. "Top 30 Greatest UCF Assistant Coaches: Top Ten". Black and Gold Banneret. Retrieved December 31, 2025.
  10. "Kelly Kochever". UCF Knights Athletics. Retrieved December 31, 2025.
  11. 1 2 "Karen Richter UCF Hall of Fame". UCF Knights Athletics. Retrieved December 31, 2025.
  12. "Amanda Cromwell". UCF Knights Athletics. Retrieved December 31, 2025.
  13. "Tiffany Roberts Sahaydak". UCF Knights Athletics. Retrieved December 31, 2025.
  14. "Women's Soccer 2025 Season in Review". UCF Knights Athletics. Retrieved December 31, 2025.
  15. "Women's Soccer History vs University of Central Florida from Oct 13, 1998 - Aug 21, 2025". GoUSFBulls.com. Retrieved January 1, 2026.
  16. "Soccer History vs University of Central Florida from September 3, 1995 - August 28, 2025". Florida Gators Athletics. Retrieved January 1, 2026.
  17. "UCFKnights.com - UCF Knights". ucfathletics.cstv.com. Archived from the original on September 3, 2011. Retrieved November 7, 2011.
  18. "UCF to Open New Stadium With Thursday's Twilight Meet". Retrieved November 7, 2011.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: deprecated archival service (link)
  19. "UCF Women's Soccer History/Records" (PDF). UCF Knights Athletics. Retrieved December 31, 2025.
  20. "UCF Women's Soccer: An Elite Program". Archived from the original on April 25, 2012. Retrieved November 8, 2011.
  21. 1 2 "UCFKnights.com - General". www.ucfathletics.com. Archived from the original on April 19, 2012.
  22. "2010 UCF Yearbook".
  23. "Reis Helps Lift Brazil to a 7-0 Win in a Friendly".{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: deprecated archival service (link)
  24. "MAC Hermann Trophy". MAC Hermann Trophy. Retrieved March 10, 2026.
  25. "UCF Women's Soccer History/Records" (PDF). UCF Knights Athletics. Retrieved December 31, 2025.
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