The 2025 women’s soccer team at Loyola Marymount University kicked off the season with an intense 1-0 victory over the University of San Francisco, setting the tone for a year of resilience and purpose.
Seven matches into the season, the Lions have a record of 4-2-1. They have recorded 34 shots and a combined 37 saves from goalkeepers.
Head coach Chris Chamides leads the program with assistant coaches Stephen Merriwether and Chelsey Brown. Their leadership begins with pride, pushing the players to be the best version of themselves both on and off the field, growing physically and mentally strong.
“Next play, keep going,” said freshman midfielder Natasha Zuvic from San Pedro, Calif. “I’ve never heard a coaching staff enforce that before. They are so positive, and they have mentally helped me feel stronger about myself.”
That kind of environment, where student-athletes feel supported, reflects in their performance on the field. Fans can see this in how the team responds under pressure and bounces back from errors.
That growth and composure is embodied by junior goalkeeper Jacqueline “JJ” Hoover from Manhattan Beach, Calif. She often helps reset the team’s energy in moments of frustration.
“As a whole team, we’ve just been getting frustrated,” Hoover said. “So, it’s important to come together, be positive, and keep pushing. Things aren’t always going to be perfect; you just have to keep working.”
“We do a pretty good job of staying composed as a team and sticking to our game plan, focusing on what we call details: staying in formation, stepping out to the correct foot, and not letting them have strong-footed shots,” Hoover added. “Little details make a big part of the game.”
On this team, defense is a collective effort. Forwards also carry defensive responsibilities by applying pressure and maintaining energy. Sophomore forward Taylor Person of Frisco, Texas, plays a big role in that. Reflecting on recent matches, she offered a different perspective on team losses.
“Your record doesn’t reflect how you play at all,” she said. “When you look back at it, we were in it, and we were right there. When you watch our team, we have so much more in us than what’s seen on a stat sheet.”
This season has been a learning curve. After a strong 2024 season, the Lions are determined to come back better than ever. With new players, the team is committed to proving themselves, dedicating around 14 hours a week to training.
In addition to the countless hours spent practicing, the team has discovered strengths that take them the extra mile when it comes to game time.
“The team has taught me strength is pushing through,” Person said. “Even when you don’t want to. Giving everything you can for your teammates, I’m not out there for myself.”
Being part of such a positive environment and accomplishing new goals has given players a chance to reflect on their soccer journeys.
“To be able to play in college is really special,” said junior goalkeeper Elena Andrews from Santa Barbara, Calif. “It makes me really happy that the little version of me who started soccer has accomplished so much.”
“It’s an honor to be a part of this,” said Zuvic, sharing her perspective as well. “I’ve been committed to this school for two years. I just wanted to be here and represent the school. This whole program is very passionate, and we are such a supportive team.”
Together, the Lions are proving this season is about more than wins and losses. With a commitment to positivity, resilience, and detail, they continue to grow into a stronger and more united team. This sets them apart from the rest.
For more updates about LMU women’s soccer, follow them on Instagram (@lmulionswsoc) and the official LMU Athletics website.
