Santa Clara Women’s Soccer Rallies Back To a Draw Against Seattle University
Mailin Orozco (44) rushes down field past defender Jaelyn Byeman (17). Photo by Nina Glick
The Santa Clara University women’s soccer team (5-4-2) hosted Seattle University (4-5-2) last Saturday, Oct. 4, marking the first home game of the academic year. Despite a shaky start, the Broncos showed resilience in front of an energized crowd.
Before kickoff, the University honored several distinguished alumni. Bay FC founders Brandi Chastain ’91, Danielle Slaton ’02, and Leslie Osborne ’05 were recognized for receiving the prestigious Honda Sports Award for Outstanding Achievement in Soccer during their time at Santa Clara. Alexis Loera ’21 was also celebrated for her Honda Soccer Award, which she received after leading the Broncos to an NCAA Women’s Soccer Championship in 2020.
The Redhawks came out firing, scoring two goals in the first 10 minutes and dominating possession. The Broncos struggled to find momentum, going nearly half an hour without attempting a single shot. But the tide turned drastically in the 28th minute when Coach Jerry Smith subbed in standout defender Addie Whitehouse ’27. Her immediate impact was undeniable. Just moments later, she assisted in the Broncos’ first goal scored by Leah O’Brien ’26. Finally, the Broncos were on the board. The goal shifted the energy on the field, and the Broncos were ready to fight back.
The Broncos trailed 1-2 at halftime, but the crowd in Stevens Stadium remained energetic. As part of the Women’s Appreciation Game, all women’s sports teams, including golf, volleyball, basketball and water polo, were honored during the break for their dedication and athletic excellence.
Coming out of halftime, the Broncos seized complete control. In the 47th minute, Mailin Orozco ’27 scored a beautiful goal assisted by O’Brien, tying the game at 2-2 and electrifying the crowd. Santa Clara had leveled the playing field and finally had an opportunity to win the game. However, Seattle quickly responded, with Caroline Penner scoring just minutes later to reclaim the lead. Santa Clara was again down a goal, but they had plenty of time to recover.
The Broncos refused to back down. In the 68th minute, star forward Kennedy Schoennauer ’27 broke through two defenders and the goalkeeper to deliver a clean strike into the top right corner of the net, tying the game once again. Her goal earned her the 3rd spot in the WCC Top 5 Plays of the Week.
Tensions rose in the final stretch. Several fouls committed by Seattle were not called, frustrating both the players and fans. A particularly controversial moment occurred around the 72nd minute, when there was a clear handball by a Seattle player in front of the Broncos’ bench. The referee stopped the game to review the play, but to everyone’s disappointment, it was not called a handball. The crowd erupted in boos as play continued.
Despite the struggles, the Broncos impressively rallied back from a two-goal deficit against a solid Seattle team, showing their determination and spirit. The match ultimately ended in a draw, reflecting the Broncos’ resilience and refusal to back down. The Broncos will host Oregon State at Stevens Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 18, a matchup that promises more high energy and fan support.