Kennesaw State Women’s Soccer Hosts Georgia Southern in Midweek Clash at Walens Family Field
KENNESAW, GA — It’s time for a local soccer showdown in Cobb County as Kennesaw State University (KSU) prepares to host Georgia Southern in a pivotal non-conference match this Wednesday, September 10 at 7 p.m. at Walens Family Field at Fifth Third Stadium.
Still searching for their first win of the season, the KSU Owls (0-4-2) aim to build momentum against a Georgia Southern squad coming off a tough four-match losing streak. It’s a golden opportunity for both teams to reset their seasons and showcase some of the region’s top college soccer talent.
Location: Walens Family Field at Fifth Third Stadium, Kennesaw, GA
Streaming: ESPN+ | Tickets available at ksuowls.com
Young Stars Rising for KSU
Despite their slow start, there are bright spots for Head Coach Benji Walton’s squad. Freshman goalkeeper Sara Hill has quickly emerged as a difference-maker between the posts. The Chattanooga native has made 17 saves with a 0.895 save percentage, including a clean sheet last weekend in a scoreless draw against Tennessee Tech.
“She’s showing poise well beyond her years,” said assistant coach Emily Lazzaro. “Sara’s distribution and ability to control the box have been huge for us.”
- Player to Watch: Sara Hill
- Clean Sheet: Sept. 7 vs TTU
- Save %: 0.895
KSU is also benefiting from first-time goal scorers. Midfielders Raelyn Prince and Rebecca Womer opened their accounts in the draw against North Florida on August 31. Add that to goals from Anabel Orozco and Alana Nesbit against Mercer, and you’ve got a team starting to find its offensive footing.
Captain’s Comeback & Field Naming News
Another big storyline this season is the return of Captain Mai Jensen, who made her long-awaited comeback against Georgia State on August 28 after nearly a year away. Her 154 minutes across four matches — including 47 in the TTU shutout — shows she’s gradually ramping up her influence on the pitch.
And fans heading to the match will notice a new name on the pitch. As of August 19, KSU’s stadium field has been officially renamed Walens Family Field, thanks to a $4 million philanthropic gift. It’s another sign of the investment being made in women’s sports at KSU.
Georgia Southern: A Tough Test on Deck
The Eagles (2-5-0) may be on a losing skid, but their schedule has been brutal. Two of their last four losses came against Top 15 nationally ranked teams — Arkansas and Tennessee — with only three total goals allowed.
Defensively, Georgia Southern leads the Sun Belt Conference in saves (40) and maintains a .750 save percentage despite rotating goalkeepers Addison Daughtry and Katie Oakley.
On offense, keep an eye on Paisley Cathey and Bri Conley, who have combined for 13 points and are the main threats up top.
What This Means
This midweek matchup isn’t just another game — it’s a measuring stick for two in-state programs trying to solidify their identity before conference play. For KSU, a win could serve as a springboard into Conference USA play, especially with a young core starting to click. For Georgia Southern, it’s a chance to snap a skid and prove they can win on the road.
Expect a tightly contested match with physical play, high energy, and a potential breakout performance from a first-year star.
Related Reads on ASN
Sara Hill’s Shutout Highlights KSU vs. TTU Draw
Join the Action
- Match Date: Wednesday, September 10
- Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
- Location: Walens Family Field, Kennesaw, GA
- Watch: ESPN+ | Tickets at ksuowls.com
👀 Will KSU secure their first win of the season, or will Georgia Southern bounce back in enemy territory? Let us know your prediction by tagging @AtlantaSoccerNews on social and using #GACollegeSoccer.
Come support local soccer. It’s more than a match — it’s the future of the game in Georgia.