Record-Breaking Season Marks Turning Point for SPSCC Women’s Soccer
Record-Breaking Season Marks Turning Point for SPSCC Women's Soccer
There is no denying that the 2025 season for the South Puget Sound women's soccer team came with its share of challenges, but it also delivered some of the most important milestones in program history. The Clippers finished the season with a 4–14–1 record, yet the year will be remembered less for the setbacks and more for the unprecedented progress made both on and off the field.
Despite the tough moments, the Clippers set multiple program records, including:
- Most wins in program history
- Most goals scored in a season
- Best goals-against average
- Most shutouts in a season
- First back-to-back wins in program history
- First Player of the Week honoree in program history
For Head Coach Ben Willis, the season wasn't defined by the record—it was defined by the foundation laid and the competitive identity the team built. "The record doesn't tell the real story of this team," Willis said. "Every week, the players showed up ready to grow. We weren't the same team in October that we were in August, and the progress we made is something that everyone in this program can be proud of." Growth through consistency and competitiveness is one of the most encouraging signs of progress this season was the Clippers' ability to stay competitive in every single match. In previous years, SPSCC often struggled with lopsided scorelines against strong opponents. This year, that narrative changed dramatically.
The Clippers kept games close throughout the entire season, defending with structure and battling until the final whistle. Even against top West Region playoff contenders, SPSCC stayed within reach and gave themselves opportunities to take points. "The biggest shift this year was our competitiveness," Willis said. "We didn't have the blowout losses that happened in past seasons. We were in every game, we defended with purpose, and we gave ourselves chances. That consistency mattered, and the players earned that improvement."
Holding matches tight was a direct result of strengthened communication, a more organized defensive block, and a group-wide commitment to competing at a higher level.
Individual Breakthroughs and Historic Firsts
One of the standout performers of the season was freshman goalkeeper Kiki Warbus, who established herself as one of the top young keepers in the region. Warbus set the program record for career shutouts and became the first Player of the Week honoree in SPSCC women’s soccer history—a milestone that resonated throughout the program.
“Kiki was massive for us,” Willis said. “Her presence, her shot-stopping, her leadership—she gave us a chance every single game. Her recognition was well deserved, and she’s just scratching the surface of what she can be.”
Freshmen Destiny Rivera and Jess Loto made immediate impacts of their own, earning Second Team All-West Regionhonors. Their consistency and level of play as first-year athletes were major factors in the team’s growth.
“For Destiny and Jess to earn all-region honors as freshmen says everything about who they are as competitors,” Willis said. “They brought toughness, consistency, and a willingness to take responsibility in big moments. They’re pillars for our future.”
Several additional players took significant steps forward, showing glimpses of what SPSCC women’s soccer can become as the group continues to mature.
Building Culture, Identity, and the Long-Term Vision
While the on-field results were mixed, the internal development of the group was undeniable. Standards in training rose significantly. Expectations around communication, competitiveness, and preparation became higher. The daily habits that form strong programs began to take shape.
According to Willis, those cultural steps forward are the true foundation for everything that comes next.
“This conference will test your spirit, your grit, and your patience,” Willis said.
“But what I saw this year was a group that never stopped believing, never stopped competing, and never stopped growing. That’s the heart of a program that’s going places.”
From a coaching perspective, the year also provided valuable insight into how the program needs to evolve moving forward. The staff gained clarity around training methodology, roster needs, and the standard required to compete at the top of the NWAC.
Looking Ahead With Optimism
Despite the ups and downs of the season, the Clippers leave 2025 with a long list of accomplishments never before seen in program history. With key players returning, a full offseason ahead, and strong recruiting underway, there is genuine belief that the biggest strides are still ahead.
“We broke records this year. We raised the standard. Now it’s about turning those moments into consistency,” Willis said.
“This group proved that SPSCC women’s soccer is on the rise, and we’re excited to build on that.”
As the Clippers transition into winter training and spring development, the focus shifts toward building this year’s foundation—one built on belief, resilience, and the highest standards the program has ever held.