Buffalo, NY – July 18 – The United Women’s Soccer (UWS) is excited to announce Friday night’s semifinal matches of the 2024 Summer Soccer National Championship at Robert Rich Sr. All-High Stadium in Buffalo, featuring the host and Iron Conference champions, FC Buffalo, against the formidable Santa Clarita Blue Heat, as well as a historic clash between the Michigan Jaguars and the New England Mutiny.
The tournament will reach its apex when the winners clash at 7pm Saturday in the UWS National Final.
FC Buffalo vs Santa Clarita is a highly-anticipated match at 8pm Friday which promises to deliver an intense showdown between two powerhouse teams, as the hosts who’ve lost just four times in four seasons hope fend off a two-time league champion from California boasting the youngest athlete to ever sign an NIL deal with Nike.
FC Buffalo enters the semifinal with a strong season record of six wins, one loss, and one draw. Led by seasoned players Carissima Cutrona, Tess Ford, Danielle Vis, and Erin Weir, who have been with the club since it joined the league in 2021, FC Buffalo boasts an impressive all-time winning percentage of .777, with 28 wins in 36 regular season matches.
Their opponents, the Santa Clarita Blue Heat, make the journey from California as the West Conference champions with a perfect season record of eight wins, zero losses, and zero draws. Known for their speed and finishing, the Blue Heat have a reputation for creating opportunities for their players to advance to the next chapter in their careers. Since 2021, they have amassed a record of 25 wins, two draws, and four losses. As original partners of the UWS since the league’s inception in 2016, the Blue Heat have an all-time record of 49 wins, eight losses, and 10 draws. They were UWS champions in 2016 and 2021 and narrowly missed the title last season in a dramatic shootout.
Fans can expect a thrilling and competitive match as FC Buffalo, backed by their loyal home crowd, take on a Santa Clarita Blue Heat team determined to reclaim the championship. The semifinal match will take place at All-High Stadium in Buffalo, NY, with live coverage available on FC Buffalo’s YouTube channel. Tickets for the event can be purchased for $10 presale at fcbuffalo.org/tickets or $15 at the door and are good for both games of the doubleheader
Semifinal #1, 5pm Friday — The Michigan Jaguars, now in their third season, are the reigning champions from 2023. With an impressive season record of seven wins, zero losses, and one tie, the Jaguars have solidified their dominance in the league. Their all-time record stands at 17 wins, four losses, and four draws. The Jaguars are on a mission to make history by becoming the first back-to-back champions in UWS history.
The New England Mutiny, one of the founding members of the UWS, have completed an extraordinary season, finishing undefeated with ten wins—a club record. This is their first trip to the National Championship, and their all-time record boasts 48 wins, 16 losses, and eight draws. Under the guidance of coach Federico Molinari, the Mutiny have become a formidable force, scoring the most goals (38) and conceding the least (4) this season.
In their quest for their first-ever UWS National title, the New England Mutiny will rely heavily on forward Hope Santaniello. The UMass Lowell senior has led her team with six goals this season. Complementing her efforts, UCONN forward Chioma Okafor has demonstrated exceptional playmaking skills, contributing three goals and seven assists, including a crucial assist in the last-minute game-winner yesterday. Fairfield University forward Madalyn Theriault also plays a pivotal role, leading the team in points with 14, from five goals and four assists this season.
About United Women’s Soccer
United Women’s Soccer (UWS) is a national pro-am league dedicated to advancing women’s soccer by providing high-level competition and exposure for aspiring professional players. Established in 2016, UWS is committed to promoting the development of women’s soccer both on and off the field.
About FC Buffalo
FC Buffalo is one of the premier soccer clubs competing in the UWS. Since joining the league in 2021, they have quickly established themselves as a dominant force, driven by a core group of dedicated players and a passionate fan base.
About Santa Clarita Blue Heat
Santa Clarita Blue Heat, an original partner of UWS since 2016, is renowned for their speed, finishing, and player development. With two UWS championships under their belt, they continue to be a formidable presence in the league.
About Michigan Jaguars
Since their establishment, Michigan Jaguars have quickly risen to prominence, capturing the 2023 UWS Championship and seeking to defend their title in 2024.
About New England Mutiny
The New England Mutiny, a founding member of the UWS, have a storied history in women’s soccer. Known for their competitive spirit and dedication, the Mutiny have set club records and are making their first National Championship appearance in 2024.
