The locker room renovation comes at a time when the program is experiencing unprecedented success and excelling at a high level on and off the field. Last fall, Cal Poly recorded six or more wins in Big West play for the third consecutive season, a program first. The Mustangs will be making their ninth appearance in the Big West Championship Match in 2023, tying the most appearances ever by a team in the conference. A program-record 21 players recorded a point and 15 players scored a goal, tying a 27-year-old program record. Additionally, 13 student-athletes were named to the Big West All-Academic Team last season, one shy of tying the program record.
“I think our team has been energized by the success we've had over the last few years, so I'm excited to keep the momentum going,” senior goalkeeper Mackenzie Samuel said.
When Samuel saw the new locker room for the first time, he was amazed at how incredible it looked.
“We were all really excited,” she said. “We're so grateful to all the donors and alumni who donated to this locker room. It's been a total 180-degree turnaround. It's so nice in here. The space is so much bigger and brighter than it was before. We're so happy we now have a place where we can all come together and spend time with each other.”
Prior to this new renovation, the women's soccer locker room had not been renovated since 2009, when the Mott Athletics Center first had its own dedicated team rooms. This renovation was long overdue and well deserved.
“We're really fortunate to be receiving such great upgrades,” senior forward Emily Nedom said. “We're looking forward to using our new facilities.”
Nedom, one of 12 seniors on this year's team, said the unveiling in the locker room was a fitting way to start Crozier's final season as the team looks to send him off in the top spot.
“This is the last season for myself and the other guys and it's Alex's last season as well, so I think we're all super motivated and eager to do well,” she said. “We're excited to not only do well in the locker room, but to showcase our talents on the field.”
Shea Homes of the Central Coast also assisted with the renovation project.
Cal Poly will open its 2024 training camp on Tuesday at 8 a.m. The team's season opener is scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 15 at 7 p.m. against Portland at Mustang Memorial Field at Spanos Stadium.
