IUPUC coaches Jason Gough and Chelsea Price are building the first Crimson Pride women’s soccer team from the ground up. And what sets their Season 1 roster apart has nothing to do with goals, saves or assists: The team has amazing grades.

In fact, their average GPA is nearly 3.5, with 7 members earning an IUPUC Excellence Award, as well as an athletic scholarship.

“The way I look see it, my players are coming to IUPUC to earn a degree, and they just happen to play soccer,” said Head Coach Gough.

Gough himself went to a smaller college (St. Ambrose University), where he enjoyed individual attention, smaller class sizes, and close relationships with his professors. He says it comes naturally for him to promote IUPUC, which has the benefits of a tight-knit community but within easy driving distance of three major cities.

He says IUPUC is also unique because—while other schools are getting rid of sports—we’re adding them! In fact, this year IUPUC is introducing men’s and women’s soccer and women’s volleyball. Athletes have a chance to make history, as the Crimson Pride just received full NAIA membership for the 2023-2024 school year as part of the River States Conference.

In addition to having a roster full of scholars, Assistant Coach Price noted that on the field, the team is “attacking orientated,” with a lot of strong offensive players. “We’ll be able to get goals this season!” she said with confidence.

The coaches added that they’re keeping the size of the team intentionally small in order to build strong relationships and give everyone a lot of playing time. “We’re not recruiting players to ride the bench,” Price added.

As of posting this, they had 17 committed athletes.

Gough said his coaching style is competitive but fun. “Instead of running straight sprints, we play conditioning games,” he explained as an example.

He says his favorite part of coaching is watching athletes grow. And by that, he means growth as competitive soccer players, but also growth as as students and as well-rounded human beings. In fact, another reason he was drawn to IUPUC is because he sees it as a great place to foster growth, both inside and outside the classroom.

IUPUC’s women’s soccer plans to play its first game at home (1585 Poshard Dr.) on Aug. 23 at 6 p.m. versus IU Northwest. Keep an eye on the IUPUC athletics page for scheduling updates and more.

For more specifics about IUPUC women’s soccer, including information for those interested in joining the Crimson Pride, email Gough at jrgough@iu.edu.