LIVINGSTON, Ala. – The University of West Alabama women's soccer team continues to rise in the NCAA Division II South Region rankings, moving up to No. 7 this week as the postseason picture begins to take shape. The Tigers are now 11-3-3 overall, 10-3-3 in-region, and 7-3-2 in Gulf South Conference play, positioning themselves just outside the top six; the cutoff line for NCAA Tournament qualification.
The climb marks another step forward for UWA, which has put together one of its strongest seasons in recent years underpinned by a dominant defense and balanced attack. The Tigers rank among the top defensive teams in the GSC, allowing just 10 goals in 17 matches and holding opponents to 0.59 goals per game.
Offensively, West Alabama has scored 21 goals on 177 shots this season, averaging 1.24 goals per match and maintaining a .119 shot percentage. The Tigers' attack has been led by Selis Demirci, who ranks first in the conference with 12 goals, while Emily Callahan and Bailee Fairley have contributed valuable support on the wings.
In goal, freshman Yumari Hernandez continues to shine as one of Division II's top keepers. Hernandez owns a 0.59 goals-against average and a .859 save percentage, both ranking first in the GSC. Her 10 shutouts this season are second in the conference, and she has allowed only 10 goals across 17 matches.
Statistically, West Alabama has maintained a near-even shot margin, outshooting opponents 177-179, but has been far more efficient in finishing and defending. The Tigers have also shown discipline in set-piece situations, converting 4-of-5 penalty kicks while allowing just one goal from the spot all year.
The top six teams from the South Region will advance to the 2025 NCAA Division II Women's Soccer Tournament, which includes automatic qualifiers from both the Gulf South Conference and Sunshine State Conference, along with at-large selections.
With postseason implications on the line, the Tigers will look to build on their momentum and make a final push toward NCAA Tournament qualification as they take on the 1-seeded West Florida, tomorrow, at 3 PM.
