The York University women's soccer team entered the final weekend of regular season play knowing that they realistically needed a win against Evangel to give themselves hope of post-season play.

Unfortunately, despite out-shooting the Valor 21-6, the Panthers played out a 1-1 tie on Senior Day. Zippora Nigg, scoring her first goal of the season, set York on the right path on 40 minutes, latching onto a through ball from Maisie Briscoe before looping the ball over the Valor keeper and into the net.

The Panthers had many chances to increase their lead, including a fizzing shot from Cleo Paris that struck Evangel's post and bounced clear. 1-0 is a dangerous lead in soccer, and the Panthers were punished in the 79th minute on a Valor breakaway that led to the equalizing goal.

York pushed in the final 10 minutes for a winner, but it was not forthcoming, leaving the Panthers, and their seniors, in limbo as to whether or not they had played their final game of the season.

Ultimately, Avila claimed the win that saw them occupy the final playoff berth on Monday evening, ending the Panthers' season at 5-7-5.

Despite the frustration and disappointment, this has been a season of strong growth on and off of the field for the women's soccer program. There is a clear philosophy in place and standards have been set which will be met and exceeded in the coming seasons. The Panthers have announced themselves as contenders in the KCAC. Now the work begins for 2024, with York setting their sights far higher up the conference standings for this time next year.

Finally, York said goodbyes to six seniors: Riley Gilbert, Giovanna Hespanha, Lia Krohe, Cleo Paris, Morgan Hamm, and Marilyn Silos. We would like to thank these ladies for their work, commitment, and sacrifices for the program, and we hope that they will be proud to have laid the groundwork for the future successes of the team.