Dupage Policy Journal

The College Conference of Wisconsin and Illinois (CCIW) women's soccer season is set to begin its conference schedule this Saturday, with several teams demonstrating strong performances both offensively and defensively.

Elmhurst leads the conference with a notable overall record, topping the league in goals, total points, and scoring margin. The team has also conceded only five goals in ten games, holding the best goals-against average at 0.50 and achieving eight shutout victories. Elmhurst forward Lauren Nevins was recognized as one of the CCIW Women’s Soccer Student-Athletes of the Week after contributing two goals and an assist in a 3-0 win over Olivet. "Her successful penalty kick in the 49th minute was the match winner before she added an insurance tally at 79:42," according to the announcement. Nevins played all 90 minutes in Elmhurst's 1-0 victory against Kalamazoo as well.

Carroll goalkeeper Neveah Darby was also named CCIW Women’s Soccer Student-Athlete of the Week after making six saves and securing a shutout in Carroll’s 3-0 win at Beloit. Carroll has extended its unbeaten streak to six games following a recent 2-1 victory over Wisconsin-Platteville, bringing their season record to 3-1-3.

Illinois Wesleyan improved its season record to above .500 with a 4-1 win at Knox, moving to 5-4-0 overall. Keira Robinson scored twice in that match for her first career multi-goal game. Liza Wiley leads the conference with five assists and is fourth in points per game (1.44). Illinois Wesleyan ranks second in both total goals (20) and goals per game (2.22), while leading the league in assists per game (1.89).

Carthage remains unbeaten at home after a recent win over Knox and a draw against Wisconsin-Stevens Point, now holding a record of 4-4-2. Goalkeeper Ainsley Stallworth leads Carthage with four shutouts this season.

Wheaton recorded consecutive scoreless draws last week, maintaining a strong defensive presence with five shutouts—the most among conference teams so far this year. Goalkeeper Leah Roe achieved her fifth clean sheet during Wednesday's match against Wisconsin-Whitewater.

North Central registered its third road win of the season by defeating Hanover 3-1 last Sunday, moving their record to 4-5-0 for the year. The Cardinals are ranked second in goals allowed (11) and have faced several nationally ranked opponents.

Millikin's record stands at 3-4-2 following a draw against Illinois College and a loss to Greenville. Izzy Jones is tied for fourth in goals scored within the conference, while Payton Dominguez is second in assists.

Augustana earned its third shutout victory out of four recent games by defeating Ripon on Tuesday. Goalkeeper Sara Schinker holds a save percentage of .830—highest among CCIW goalkeepers—and averages 5.50 saves per game.

North Park will look for its first win since September 13 as it prepares for its upcoming match against Augustana. Goalkeeper Paige Macritchie leads all conference players with 49 total saves through nine matches.

As multiple teams enter league play on winning or unbeaten streaks, competition within the CCIW women’s soccer landscape appears balanced between offensive leaders like Elmhurst and defensive standouts from Wheaton and Augustana.