The University of Wisconsin-Madison women’s soccer team started this year strong with a 6-2 record, building on the success they saw last season.
The Badgers made the NCAA tournament in back-to-back years in 2023 and 2024. Last year as a No. 5 seed, they advanced through the first two rounds before falling to No. 1 seed USC (3-1). This string of recent success has given the program high expectations going into the season.
In the eight games they’ve played so far, Wisconsin is meeting those expectations. Their only two losses came at the hands of LSU on August 28 (1-0) and in their first Big Ten conference game vs. Purdue on September 11 (2-1).
A few Badgers have been key to this success.
Ashley Martinez
In grad student Martinez’s fifth season with the Badgers, the midfielder and defender remained a consistent player for the team on both ends of the field, with two goals and the team lead in assists (three) since the start of the season.
One of the most notable aspects of Wisconsin’s style of play is their shooting percentage. So far this season, they’ve averaged almost three times more shots per game than their opponents, and it’s a strategy that’s proven effective. Martinez is a key part of this, leading the team in shots taken with 19.
Drew Stover
The Badgers’ senior goalie has played a critical role in their success this season, recording 15 saves and a 0.750 save percentage, which ranks second in the Big Ten. Her four shutouts are twice the number she had at this time last season.
Anya Gulbrandsen
After finding success last year in her first season with the Badgers, all eyes were on Gulbrandsen coming into 2025. In her first year as a starter, the sophomore midfielder has lived up to the expectations.
She leads the team in goals scored (three) and shots on goal (eight). When asked about her future at Wisconsin in an interview last year, she told The Daily Cardinal, “I just want to keep contributing.” So far, she’s been doing just that.
Given she’s only a sophomore, Gulbrandsen will continue to be a key player to watch as she grows with the team.
Erin Connolly
The junior midfielder has been a starter for Wisconsin since her freshman year but suffered a season-ending injury which sidelined her for much of that first season. Now, she’s entirely back, having started every game this season.
Currently, she’s tied with Gulbrandsen for most goals on the season (three). Connolly also scored the Badgers’ only goal against Purdue with a header in the 81st minute.
Hailey Baumann
Baumann is no stranger to success, having started every game since her freshman year and gaining invitations to U19 and U20 Youth National Team camps. She’s racked up a goal and two assists so far this season and is the star of the team’s defensive line. Her impact will continue to be felt heading into her junior year.
The Badgers continue conference play in their next game, Sept. 18 at Ohio State.
