The University of North Carolina's women's soccer program stands as a paragon of excellence in collegiate athletics. Established in 1979 under the guidance of coach Anson Dorrance, the Tar Heels swiftly ascended to prominence, capturing their first national title in 1981. Over the ensuing decades, they have amassed an unparalleled 23 national championships, including 22 NCAA titles, solidifying their dominance in the sport. This illustrious legacy was reaffirmed in December 2024 when UNC clinched its latest championship with a 1-0 victory over Wake Forest. Sophomore forward Olivia Thomas netted the decisive goal, while interim head coach Damon Nahas, stepping in after Dorrance's retirement just days before the season commenced, became only the second coach in NCAA women's soccer history to secure a national title in their inaugural year. The Tar Heels' sustained success underscores their enduring commitment to excellence and their influential role in shaping the landscape of women's collegiate soccer.
The University of North Carolina's women's soccer program commenced its inaugural varsity season in 1979 under the leadership of head coach Anson Dorrance. Transitioning from a club team, the Tar Heels quickly established themselves as a formidable force, achieving a 10-2 record in their first season. Their debut match was a commanding 12-0 victory over Duke on September 20, 1979. Janet Rayfield emerged as the team's standout player, netting 30 goals in just 12 games, setting a high standard for future athletes . This strong foundation laid the groundwork for UNC's women's soccer to evolve into one of the most successful programs in collegiate sports history.
In 1981, the UNC women's soccer program marked a major milestone by winning its first national championship. Competing in the Association for Intercollegiate Athletics for Women (AIAW), the team, led by coach Anson Dorrance, showcased their growing dominance in the sport. That season, the Tar Heels finished with an impressive 19-2-1 record and captured the AIAW national title by defeating Central Florida in the final. This victory not only gave UNC its first taste of national success but also set the stage for the program’s future dominance in NCAA competition, which began just a year later. The 1981 season is remembered as the year UNC women's soccer truly arrived on the national stage.
From 1986 to 1994, the UNC women’s soccer program experienced an era of unmatched dominance, winning nine consecutive NCAA national championships—a record in collegiate soccer. Under the leadership of legendary coach Anson Dorrance, the Tar Heels built a dynasty powered by incredible talent, including future U.S. national team stars like Mia Hamm, Kristine Lilly, and Tisha Venturini. During this time, UNC often went undefeated or nearly undefeated, overwhelming opponents with their speed, skill, and team chemistry. The streak wasn’t just about winning—it was about shaping the future of women's soccer in the U.S., as many UNC players went on to form the core of the U.S. team that won the 1991 Women’s World Cup. This golden era established UNC as the most dominant program in the history of women’s college soccer.
In 2003, the UNC women’s soccer team had one of its most memorable seasons, going 27-0-0 to finish undefeated and capture the NCAA national championship. Led by standout players like Heather O’Reilly, Lindsay Tarpley, and Cat Reddick, the Tar Heels showcased incredible talent and teamwork throughout the season. Their dominance was especially clear in the NCAA tournament, where they outscored their opponents 32-0. In the championship match, UNC defeated the University of Connecticut 6-0, tying the record for the largest margin of victory in a women’s final. The 2003 season was a perfect example of UNC’s legacy of excellence and its ability to rebuild championship teams across generations.
In 2012, the UNC women’s soccer program added another legendary chapter to its history by winning its 21st NCAA national championship. Entering the tournament as a #2 seed in their bracket, the Tar Heels were seen as underdogs compared to some previous powerhouse seasons—but they peaked at just the right time. Led by players like Kealia Ohai, Crystal Dunn, and Amber Brooks, UNC went on a remarkable run through the tournament. In the final, they defeated Penn State 4-1, with Ohai scoring the game-winning goal. Crystal Dunn was named the tournament's Most Outstanding Defensive Player, while Ohai was named Most Outstanding Offensive Player. The 2012 victory was especially meaningful, proving that UNC could still dominate in a new era of increasingly competitive women’s college soccer.
In 2024, the University of North Carolina women's soccer program achieved a historic milestone by securing its 23rd national championship—the first since 2012—reaffirming its status as the most successful program in NCAA women's soccer history. Under the guidance of interim head coach Damon Nahas, following the retirement of legendary coach Anson Dorrance, the Tar Heels compiled a 22–5–0 record. The season culminated in a 1–0 victory over Wake Forest in the NCAA final, with Olivia Thomas scoring the decisive goal in the 62nd minute. Graduate goalkeeper Clare Gagne, a transfer from Brown University, was instrumental in the team's success, recording 13 shutouts and earning the tournament's Most Outstanding Defensive Player award. UNC's dominance was further underscored by leading the nation with 22 wins and extending its unparalleled streak of appearances in all 43 NCAA Tournaments, including 32 College Cup berths—18 more than any other program. This championship season not only added to the Tar Heels' illustrious legacy but also demonstrated the program's resilience and adaptability in a new era of leadership.
Forward · Senior
Goals: 14
Assists: 7
Games: 19
Goalkeeper · Junior
Goals: 14
Assists: 7
Games: 19
Midfielder · Sophomore
Goals: 14
Assists: 7
Games: 19
Goalkeeper · Junior
Goals: 14
Assists: 7
Games: 19
Goalkeeper · Junior
Goals: 14
Assists: 7
Games: 19
Goalkeeper · Junior
Goals: 14
Assists: 7
Games: 19