October 1, 2026
ORANGE BEACH, Ala. — Truett McConnell University's impressive season came to an end Saturday, Dec. 5, as the women's soccer team lost its NAIA Women's Soccer National Championship quarterfinal, 1-0, to Embry-Riddle in overtime.
The No. 10 Lady Bears fell to No. 15 Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (Ariz.) in a defensive battle that stretched into extra time. Both teams fought through a tight and physical matchup, with neither side able to break through in regulation.
TMU generated opportunities in the second half, including a pair of looks from Annabel Trauschke and a shot on goal from Isabella Hodson, but ultimately was unable to connect. After 90 minutes of scoreless soccer, the match went to overtime.
The winning goal came in the 97th minute, as Embry-Riddle's Tessa Updegraff capitalized on an assist from Samantha Wright, sending them to the semifinals and concluding TMU's postseason.
Trauschke led the Lady Bears with two shots, both on goal, while Hodson added one shot on goal. Keeper Danica Wittmann recorded three saves to keep the Lady Bears alive into overtime.
TMU closed a remarkable 2025 season with a 19-2-2 record, highlighted by the program's first-ever appearance in the NAIA quarterfinals.
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