The 11th-ranked William Smith soccer team advanced to the NCAA Division III Women’s Soccer National Championship with a 2-0 victory over 23rd-ranked Emory in the semifinal round. This marks the Herons’ first championship appearance since 2019.
After a scoreless first half, William Smith (17-3-4) found the net twice in the second half. First-year player Nell Dwyer broke the deadlock in the 47th minute with a header from a Ruth Hotaling cross, marking her third goal of the season. Junior Anna Nichols doubled the lead in the 59th minute, scoring her first collegiate goal after capitalizing on a bouncing ball in the box. Goalkeeper Kirsten Nelson, a graduate student, made four critical saves to preserve the shutout.
Despite an 18-4 advantage in shots and several close chances, including hitting the post twice, Emory (14-4-4) could not convert their opportunities. Eagles goalkeeper Sophia Garcia made one save in the loss.
William Smith will now face top-ranked Washington University in St. Louis, who defeated Christopher Newport 3-0 in the other semifinal. The championship match is scheduled for Sunday, December 8, at UNLV’s Peter Johann Memorial Field, with kickoff at 3 p.m. Eastern (noon Pacific).
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].