The Fordham University women’s soccer team has started their season on a positive note, securing three wins, one tie, and just one loss in their first five games.
The Rams earned victories against Manhattan (2-1), Drexel (1-0), and Albany (4-2) while finishing with a 1-1 draw against Wagner. However, their momentum was briefly halted by a tough Fairfield team, which handed them a 5-0 defeat in Connecticut this past Sunday. Despite the loss, Fordham’s solid start to the season remains intact.
Senior midfielder Tristan McFarlane is especially relishing her final year in college soccer. Having played the sport her entire life, being on the field feels natural for her.
“I’ve always loved sports,” said McFarlane, who also played competitive hockey as a child. “But soccer has always been my favorite. By the time I was in high school, I knew it was the sport I wanted to pursue, especially since my team was successful. I love winning.”
McFarlane initially played her freshman year at the University of Hartford before transferring to Fordham, where she quickly embraced both the campus and the fast-paced life in New York City. She’s also excited to be a part of building something special under Head Coach Magnus Nilerud, now in his third year at Fordham.
“I’m a business/finance major, and the business school here is great. Plus, New York City offers so many opportunities in finance,” McFarlane explained.
While focusing on networking for her future, McFarlane remains dedicated to helping her team keep winning. She’s also open to pursuing professional soccer after graduation.
“Since the beginning of the season, our team has built such strong connections,” McFarlane said. “There’s a lot of chemistry on the field, and we have great depth. Anybody can come off the bench and contribute.”
Fordham women’s soccer heads to Massachusetts to face Stonehill College tonight before traveling to Connecticut for a Sunday match against Yale University. Next week, they’ll return to the Bronx to face Columbia University.
For McFarlane and her teammates, road trips provide valuable opportunities to strengthen their bonds. Team-building events earlier in the season helped the players connect, with upperclasswomen organizing activities to ensure everyone felt included.
“I’m really proud of our team,” McFarlane said. “I think we have a promising season ahead, and we’re only going to keep improving. Sharing success with your teammates is incredibly rewarding.”
