FAIRFIELD, Conn. – The Sacred Heart University women's soccer team looks forward to another intense season when it kicks off the 2022 slate against Vermont at Park Ave Field on Thursday. 
 
The Pioneers return the teams' top three scorers from a season ago, including forward Grace O'Hara. The sophomore led the Pioneers with eight goals last fall and was named First-Team All-NEC and to the All-Rookie team. Also returning in the offensive unit is senior Desiree Crawford who netted five goals. Junior Julie Gallotto is also back after playing in all 16 matches last season and saw the most time on the field last season with 1,425 minutes. 
 
Junior Nichol Green will be looked upon to hold down the midfield as she started in 15 games and notched one assist as she captured a Second-Team All-NEC nod a season ago.
 
Primary goalkeeper Elyssa Kipperman also returns between the posts for her senior season. Kipperman proved to be one of the top keepers in the league last season, ranking third in the NEC with a total of three shutouts.
 
Ten first-year players and one transfer will debut for the Red & White this fall including Jenna Meier, Grace Robison, Theanna Burnett, Martyna Krzysztopik, Meredith Gaylord, Morgan Bovardi, Laurene Jordan, Madison Wisheart, Victoria Constantine, Janelle Mixner and Lily Caso. 
 
The Pioneers' 18-game schedule consists of 10 non-conference games that are highlighted by a meeting with the University of Delaware for the just the second time in program history.
 
The Northeast Conference schedule will kick off on September 15 at newest NEC member Stonehill.