University of Northern Colorado Athletics
University of Northern Colorado
Colorado
Bears Open Season in Boulder Thursday
8/16/2023 1:19:00 PM | Women's Soccer
GREELEY, Colo. – On the eve of the 39th season opener in program history, the University of Northern Colorado women's soccer team turned their attention towards Thursday's opponent, Colorado.
Heading into his 25th season at the helm, UNC head coach Tim Barrera named Lucy Roberts and Kaya Lindberg co-captains.
After a pair of exhibition contests during preseason camp, Barrera and his squad worked on the areas they felt needed more attention before kicking off the regular season.
"We are excited to get the regular season started and will certainly be tested by Colorado," Barrera said. "It's the first ever night game at the upgraded Prentup Field so it will a big challenge, but the players are excited."
With a mix of youth and experience, starting roles were influx heading into the final days of training and the reconfigured roster faces three-straight tests out the gate.
"We play two or three schools from Power Five conferences each year, so we know what we are up against," Barrera said.
Following the opener with the Buffalos in Boulder, Colorado Thursday night at 7 p.m., UNC opens the home slate when Iowa State visits Jackson Stadium Sunday, Aug. 20 at noon. The Bears' close out week one against Michigan State Thursday, Aug. 24 at 7 p.m.
Barrera's 280 wins ranks 38th among active NCAA coaches and 69th all-time.
The Bears own a 21-15-2 mark in season openers, including 4-5-1 over the last 10 campaigns.
Thursday's match is just the third time Northern Colorado opened a season against the Buffalos and the first ever night game at Prentup Field.
