The Wildcat soccer team is putting together a historic season, sitting second in the United Athletic Conference standings at 4-0-4 in conference play, just one point behind Tarleton State.

In its first season in the UAC, the Wildcats have positioned themselves to compete for a regular-season conference championship. Head coach Stephen Salas said the team’s discipline, focus and chemistry have helped separate this season’s group from previous teams.

“The girls are more disciplined, and they’re more hungry,” Salas said. “This team’s just a lot more focused, a lot more disciplined and action focused.”

One of the defining moments of the season came during the road game against North Alabama on October 8. The Wildcats earned a 1-0 win, recording a shutout while showing they could compete away from home. Salas said the performance helped him recognize the team’s potential.

The team has also developed a stronger connection off the field, which sophomore goalkeeper Bella Medrano said has translated into playing better.

She said the Wildcats have built on the relationships formed during the spring season, when injuries left the team with very few healthy players and forced them to adjust formations and work through adversity.

“Last year we had a really good team, but this year, I feel like we’re connecting a lot better,” Medrano said. “We have connections outside of just the field, which I think helps us more on the field.”

Leadership has also played a major role in the Wildcats’ success. Medrano said leaders are spread throughout the lineup, allowing players in different positions to communicate and guide their teammates. She highlighted junior center back and captain Gracie Kelly as one of the team’s strongest leaders.

Salas also praised the team’s four captains and upperclassmen, saying their leadership has helped the Wildcats reach their current position. He said the team has built a strong foundation through its players and coaching staff, which includes new assistant coaches this season.

After qualifying for the WAC tournament for the first time in program history last season, the Wildcats now have a chance to take another step forward. Salas said the experience from last year’s tournament has helped prepare the returning players for the challenges ahead.

The team last won a conference championship in 2018, when the Wildcats defeated Stephen F. Austin to claim the Southland Conference title.

“Last year was great,” Salas said. “This year the goal is winning the conference tournament.”

With the regular season continuing, the team is focused on maintaining their momentum and turning the strong conference performance into a championship opportunity, the first since 2018. Although the Wildcats have already made progress, Salas said they know there is more work to do before reaching the team’s goals.

“We’re ready to make new history,” Salas said.