Xavier Women’s Soccer: A Rising Force Under Dean Ward
Xavier University’s women’s soccer program is experiencing a period of unprecedented success under the leadership of Head Coach Dean Ward. Since his arrival in December 2023, Ward has rapidly transformed the Musketeers into a BIG EAST powerhouse and a consistent contender in the NCAA Championship.
From Lenoir-Rhyne to Xavier: A Proven Track Record
Prior to Xavier, Ward established himself as a dynamic coach at Lenoir-Rhyne University. In just two seasons (2022-2023), he amassed 29 wins, secured two league titles, and led the Bears to a pair of NCAA Division II Championship appearances, culminating in an Elite Eight finish in 2023. This success wasn’t just about wins; Ward consistently developed high-caliber players, coaching 16 all-conference selections and two USC All-Americans during his tenure.
2024: A Historic Season
Ward’s first season at Xavier in 2024 was nothing short of remarkable. The Musketeers achieved a 15-4-2 overall record, the third-most wins in program history. They finished as BIG EAST runners-up with a 7-2-1 conference record, earning the No. 2 seed in the BIG EAST Championship. The team shattered program records, scoring 51 goals – the most in 40 years – and accumulating 139 points, the highest total in over three decades. Defensively, Xavier was equally impressive, recording 10 shutouts and conceding only 18 goals.
2025: Championship Glory and National Recognition
Building on the momentum of 2024, the 2025 season saw Xavier reach new heights. The Musketeers secured the BIG EAST Championship title with a decisive 2-0 victory over Georgetown, earning an automatic bid to the NCAA Championships. Samantha Erbach’s outstanding performance, scoring 18 goals, was pivotal to their success. The team’s offensive prowess continued, with a national ranking of second in scoring offense (3.23 goals per game) and goal differential (49). Individually, Samantha Erbach was named a USC Third Team All-American and BIG EAST Midfielder Player of the Year, while Natalie Bain earned USC Fourth Team All-American and BIG EAST Defender of the Year honors. Ward’s coaching staff was as well recognized as the United Soccer Coaches (USC) East Region Staff of the Year.
Player Development and Accolades
A hallmark of Ward’s coaching philosophy is player development. Under his guidance, Xavier players have consistently earned individual accolades. In 2024, Natalie Bain, Samantha Wiehe, and Samantha Erbach all received BIG EAST awards, with Bain and Wiehe becoming the first Musketeers in program history to earn USC Second Team All-America honors. In 2025, Erbach and Bain continued to shine, earning All-American recognition.
A Foundation for Sustained Success
Dean Ward’s impact extends beyond wins and awards. He has fostered a culture of excellence, discipline, and teamwork within the Xavier women’s soccer program. His experience at both Lenoir-Rhyne and Xavier demonstrates a consistent ability to build winning programs and develop players to their full potential. His prior experience as an assistant coach at the University of Dayton and the University of Tennessee further underscores his comprehensive understanding of the game.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Xavier Soccer?
Xavier’s recent success positions the program for continued growth and national prominence. With a strong recruiting pipeline and a dedicated coaching staff, the Musketeers are poised to remain a top contender in the BIG EAST and make deeper runs in the NCAA Championship. The program’s commitment to both offensive firepower and defensive solidity suggests a sustainable model for success.
FAQ
Q: How long has Dean Ward been the head coach at Xavier?
A: Dean Ward was appointed head coach in December 2023.
Q: What was Xavier’s record in 2025?
A: Xavier finished the 2025 season with a 15-3-2 record.
Q: Has Xavier won the BIG EAST Championship before?
A: Yes, the 2025 title was the Musketeers’ second BIG EAST Championship since joining the conference.
Q: Where did Dean Ward coach before Xavier?
A: Dean Ward was the head coach at Lenoir-Rhyne University for two seasons.
Q: What awards did Samantha Erbach receive in 2025?
A: Samantha Erbach was named a USC Third Team All-American, CSC Academic All-American and the BIG EAST Midfielder Player of the Year.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on Xavier’s recruiting class – Coach Ward has a knack for identifying and developing top talent!
Stay updated on Xavier Women’s Soccer by visiting the official athletics website.
