The Iowa women's soccer team had a historic 2023 season and set a high bar for the future. As the Hawkeyes wrap up their spring schedule, players are focused on developing and preparing to compete in the new Big Ten.
Iowa State began its spring schedule with a unique opportunity to play an exhibition match against the Chicago Red Stars, an NWSL pro team.
The Hawkeyes then shifted their focus to the 2024 Spring Cup, playing against St. Louis, Missouri and Notre Dame, two teams who qualified for the 2023 NCAA Tournament and SEC foes.
Iowa State finished fifth in the Spring Cup, losing to St. Louis, tying with Missouri, and defeating Notre Dame 1-0.
“I think it was probably the toughest spring play.” [schedule] We had that,” Iowa head coach Dave Dianni said. “We wanted to make sure we were playing the best teams we could to put ourselves in a position to get noticed and grow.”
Dianni emphasized that this spring will be focused on development, as the team was “pretty young last year.” He wants to maintain Iowa's strong defense and transition play while strengthening its offense and scoring ability.
Two young players who stand out more than fourth-year forward Delaney Holte are Sophia Bush and Millie Grier.
“Sophia Bush did a great job in midfield,” Holty said. “She's an important part of this group. She's very calm and focused on the ball. I think you really need that, especially in a game where things get so heated.” is very creative and a playmaker.”
Holty said Grier had a great rookie season in 2023, continuing to improve his game and becoming a calming presence on the field.
Holty has also shown personal growth in his offensive play. She helps make Iowa State's offense more dynamic with an emphasis on moving the ball forward and creating scoring opportunities in transition.
After missing most of last fall due to injury, forward Mike Ingles returned to the field and helped develop the offense. Dianni also cited Kenzie Loring, Abby Skiff and Sonya Mehta as players who have taken big steps this spring and are playing with more confidence.
Defender Mia Schuler has stepped up to the team for her senior season. Schuler said he helped fill the void left by graduated starters Josie Dahl and Samantha Cary, and he feels like he has assumed a leadership role.
“I've been bringing more people under my wing, talking to them a little more and guiding them through the process,” Schuler said. “I've been here the last few years. I know how the program runs, so I have a different level of confidence this spring than I've had in the past.”
Two newcomers who have impressed DiIanni are Kaylee Collard and Charlotte Bian. Vian suffered an injury earlier this year that required surgery, but Dianni expects him to be ready by fall.
Dianni said Corrado has been a little inconsistent, but said that's to be expected for an athlete who should still be in high school and is transitioning to college track and field. He said she has endured hardships and she is adjusting well.
“Our team has been really focused this semester,” Holty said. “Our big thing is growth in all areas. We try not to be complacent. We are defending Big Ten champions, so maintaining a growth mindset is very important. is important.”
