UNC Women’s Soccer Wins 23rd NCAA Championship in 2024

In a thrilling display of athleticism and determination, the North Carolina Tar Heels women’s soccer team has secured their 23rd national championship title. Their victory over Wake Forest in the 2024 NCAA Division I women’s soccer championship not only marks a significant milestone for the program but also solidifies their dominance in college soccer history.

With a final score of 1-0, the Tar Heels demonstrated their prowess on the field, guided by interim head coach Damon Nahas. This championship win is a testament to the team’s resilience and skill, showcasing their ability to perform under pressure and come out on top.

North Carolina’s Path to Victory

The journey to the championship was filled with intense matches and remarkable performances. The Tar Heels, seeded second, faced fellow No. 2 seed Wake Forest in the final at WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary, North Carolina.

The decisive moment came in the 62nd minute when Olivia Thomas scored her ninth goal of the season off a free kick, securing the win for North Carolina. Thomas’ goal was not only the match-winner but also earned her the title of Most Outstanding Offensive Player.

Key Players and Outstanding Performances

Olivia Thomas’ performance was pivotal throughout the tournament. Her ability to capitalize on set pieces and her offensive prowess made her a standout player. Thomas is the first Tar Heel to be named Most Outstanding Offensive Player since Kealia Ohai in 2012.

Alongside her, goalkeeper Clare Gagne was named the Most Outstanding Defensive Player, making crucial saves that kept Wake Forest at bay. Gagne is the first UNC goalkeeper to win this accolade since Siri Mullinix in 1997, highlighting her exceptional defensive skills.

Freshmen Trinity Armstrong and Linda Ullmark also made significant contributions, earning spots on the NCAA All-Tournament Team. Their performances underscore the depth of talent within the team and the promising future of the program.

Historic Achievements and Records

The 2024 championship adds to North Carolina’s impressive legacy in women’s soccer. With 22 of the 43 NCAA titles in history, plus the 1981 AIAW title, the Tar Heels have a total of 23 national championships. No other women’s soccer team comes close, with the next highest tally being four.

This dominance is a testament to the program’s consistent excellence and ability to nurture top-tier talent.

Interim Head Coach Damon Nahas’ Milestone

Interim head coach Damon Nahas has made history by becoming the second coach in NCAA women’s soccer to win a national championship in their first year. He joins the ranks of UCLA’s Margueritte Aozasa, who achieved the feat in 2022.

Nahas is also the fourth Carolina head coach to win a national championship in their first season, following in the footsteps of Erin Matson (field hockey, 2023), Carlos Somoano (men’s soccer, 2011), and Dave Klarmann (men’s lacrosse, 1991).

Season Highlights and Team Achievements

The 2024 season was remarkable for North Carolina in many ways. The team wrapped up their campaign with a 22-5 (7-3 ACC) record, marking the 21st season in school history with 22 or more wins.

The Tar Heels’ journey to the championship was marked by several key milestones and standout performances.

Notable Milestones

• 23rd national championship (22nd NCAA championship) in program history.
• 32nd College Cup berth – 18 more than any other school.
• 21st season with 22+ wins.
• Achieved the 250th regular season win on October 10.
• Secured the 950th all-time win on November 7.
• Won the 150th NCAA Tournament game on November 24, now with 154 NCAA wins.
• Matched the program’s largest first-round win in school history with an 8-0 victory over USC Upstate.

A Dominant Force in College Soccer

North Carolina’s dominance in women’s soccer is unparalleled. The Tar Heels have appeared in all 43 NCAA Tournaments, a streak unmatched by any other team.

Their 32 College Cup appearances, including five of the last seven, further highlight their sustained excellence. With an all-time NCAA Tournament record of 153-18-5, no other school comes close to their level of success.

Accolades and Recognition

The 2024 season saw several Tar Heels earning individual accolades. Kate Faasse was named a semifinalist for the prestigious MAC Hermann Trophy, the program’s first finalist since Brianna Pinto in 2020-21.

UNC had three All-America selections, with Faasse being the first First Team All-America since Pinto in 2020. Armstrong, the first All-America rookie since Alessia Russo in 2017, and Dellarose, who was named to the fourth team, also received recognition.

Additionally, Armstrong and Faasse earned All-Atlantic Region First Team honors, with Dellarose landing on the second team. This marks the 10th consecutive year that UNC has had at least three All-Region picks. Six Tar Heels combined for seven All-ACC Honors, with Armstrong and Faasse on the first team. Four players were also named to the All-ACC Tournament Team.

Looking Ahead

As the Tar Heels celebrate their 23rd national championship, the future looks bright for North Carolina women’s soccer.

The team’s depth of talent and the leadership of interim head coach Damon Nahas position them well for continued success.

With a legacy of excellence and a commitment to nurturing top-tier talent, the Tar Heels are poised to remain a dominant force in college soccer for years to come.

Stay up to date with UNC women’s soccer by following the Tar Heels on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.

For more detailed information on the championship win, visit the official article.