The Saint Rose women’s soccer team, under the leadership of head coach Laurie Darling Gutheil for 27 years, has experienced remarkable success. They have secured nine Northeast-10 championships from 2007 to 2021 and clinched the NCAA Division II national championship in 2011. Their recent appearance in the national title game in 2021 further solidifies their position as a powerhouse in women’s soccer.
“We are highly driven to become one of the top programs in the country,” Gutheil emphasized. “Our culture fosters a relentless pursuit of excellence in every aspect of our individual and collective efforts. There is an abundance of excitement for the upcoming season.”
The Golden Knights will commence their quest for a seventh consecutive NCAA Tournament appearance with a season-opening match against Georgian Court in Lakewood, N.J., scheduled for 4 p.m. on Thursday. Ranked 11th in the United Soccer Coaches preseason Top 25 poll, Saint Rose aims to build upon their successful performance in the previous NCAA Tournament. Last season, they finished with an impressive record of 19-1-3, falling to Franklin Pierce in the East Region final after double overtime.
“We have a significant number of players who have experienced the national championship in 2021,” Gutheil remarked. “We have also acquired some transfers who aspire to be part of our successful and winning environment. With our capabilities, we can achieve great results. However, we must work incredibly hard to transform our potential and promise into a remarkable reality.”
Key members of the 2022 squad returning for the Golden Knights include leading scorer and first-team All-American Mia Klammer (12 goals, 15 assists), junior goalie Pia Bozic, and graduate fullback Sanna Rein.
“The returning players grasp the bigger picture because they have already experienced it,” Gutheil explained. “They are determined to achieve it again. Nevertheless, we understand the importance of focusing on one game at a time and giving our utmost in the present moment to grow and develop.”
The team’s success can also be attributed to its remarkable diversity. Among the roster for the upcoming season, there are 10 international players including graduate forward/midfielder Lauren Amerena from England, goalie Pia Bozic from Slovenia, and fullback Sanna Rein from Finland. Additionally, the team comprises players from various parts of the United States, ranging from Kansas, Washington, and California to local players from Mechanicville, Ballston Lake, Ballston Spa, and other Northeast locations.
“We put tremendous effort into recruiting talent from across the country and globally,” Gutheil emphasized. “We attract players who seek a winning and competitive environment alongside a high-quality education. Our program emphasizes the perfect combination of national-level soccer, academics, and a dedicated, passionate, and competitive culture.”
Following their season opener in Lakewood, the Golden Knights will face Jefferson in Philadelphia at 2 p.m. on Saturday, followed by their home opener against Roberts Wesleyan at 6 p.m. on Wednesday at the Plumeri Sports Complex in Albany. However, Gutheil remains focused on the present and avoids looking too far ahead in the schedule.
“Our focus is solely on the first game and being the best version of ourselves tomorrow,” Gutheil asserted. “We aim to continuously improve and grow for the next match. Our daily dedication is to become better because we want to compete and win every game we have the opportunity to play, ultimately earning our spot in the NCAA Tournament once again.”
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