This weekend, Union athletics looked to capitalize on their packed home schedule in front of families, large crowds and tough opponents. Union University’s Family Weekend featured a variety of different sporting events.
The games began Friday when the Union University women’s soccer team faced off against the University of West Florida in the first conference game of the season. The Lady Bulldogs won the game 1-0.
“We’ve played a tough non-conference schedule, and our girls have had to fight hard,” Coach Isaac Brooks said. “That is why we won this game tonight because [we] fought hard for 90 minutes.”
The lone goal was scored by Kelsey Wilkes just five and a half minutes into the game—that was all the Lady Bulldogs needed to secure their first win of the season.
Following the women’s victory, the men’s soccer team posted a 2-1 win over No. 17 University of West Florida. Union handed West Florida their first loss of the season as the Bulldogs picked up their third win in seven games. It was their first game in the Gulf South Conference.
“[My guys] did a great job and gave a great effort for 90 minutes,” Coach Clovis Simas said. “They played a disciplined game and were very committed to each other.”
This was the Union men’s third straight game versus teams ranked or receiving votes in the NCAA Division II National Rankings.
Amadeu Guimaraes scored both goals in the second half to take the lead for the Bulldogs and Union’s defense held strong. Matt Kesler had four saves.
Friday night also showcased the Lady Bulldogs volleyball team. They lost a tough series to the University of North Alabama Lady Lions, 3-0 (25-13, 25-15, 25-17).
Saturday, however, the volleyball team bounced back and defeated the University of Alabama Huntsville 3-1 (23-25, 25-22, 25-18, 25-16). Union improved to 4-7 overall and 3-2 in Gulf South Conference play.
The weekend wrapped up on Sunday with a pair of 3-0 wins for both the men’s and women’s soccer team over Spring Hill College.
Families and students alike were treated to some competitive and exciting games over the weekend, and as the athletic teams move forward this season, they are looking forward to making an impact in the Gulf South Conference.
