After finishing their opening weekend with a win and a draw, the Tigers now prepare for a challenging road test with back-to-back matches. Despite not getting the results they had hoped for, the team showcased their depth, control, and attacking creativity, qualities that will be crucial as the season progresses. With momentum still on their side and an unbeaten record intact, the Tigers will look to sharpen their finishing touch and prove themselves against the coming competition in the weeks ahead.

SAA Players of the Week - Bri Werner & Ilsa Newland

For the first time, two athletes have been named as SAA Player of the Week. Ilsa Newland (St. Louis, MO / Kirkwood) and Bri Werner (Woodbine, MD / Glenelg) become the first non-football athletes to be recognized as players of the week in Trinity's new conference. 

From the SAA Press Release:

Bri Werner delivered an outstanding opening weekend for the Tigers. She recorded two goals and one assist across 120 minutes of action, while firing 10 total shots, including five on goal. Werner played a pivotal role in Trinity's 6–0 win over Texas A&M–San Antonio, scoring once and adding an assist, before netting another goal against Pacific Lutheran. Her efforts not only paced the Tiger offense but also pushed her into a tie for the conference lead in goals.

Newland turned in a breakout weekend on both ends of the pitch for the Tigers. The senior defender logged 163 minutes, including a full 90 in Trinity's 1–1 draw with Pacific Lutheran, while anchoring a back line that allowed just four total shots across two matches. Against Texas A&M–San Antonio, Newland and the Tigers' defense limited the opposition to a single attempt in a dominant 6–0 victory. She also added her first career goal in that match.

Preview - First Away Games in a Tournament Style Weekend for the Tigers
 
Trinity will begin its back-to-back weekend on Friday, September 5 at 3:00 PM against University of Dallas, a team the Tigers have consistently faced throughout the years, coming out on top in many of those meetings. The team will then face nationally ranked #12th MIT on Saturday, September 6, at 4:00 PM.
 
On the University of Dallas Crusaders: The University of Dallas has been a regular opponent for the Tigers within SCAC play, with Trinity historically holding the upper hand in the matchup. The Crusaders are known for their grit and defensive effort, often forcing the Tigers to stay sharp in possession and break down compact lines of play.

In 2024, Trinity handled the matchup convincingly with a 4–0 victory, showcasing both their depth and attacking balance. Goals came from multiple contributors across the roster, with goals from Hanna Khan (Southlake, Texas / Carroll), Bri Werner, the now graduated Michaela Bosco, and the Tigers newest Graduate Assistant Coach Maya Ozymy. The result was a reflection of the Tigers' dominance in conference play, where their ability to combine sharp ball movement with clinical finishing often sets them apart.

Though Trinity has consistently found success against Dallas, the meetings between the two programs have grown into spirited contests. For the Crusaders, every matchup with the nationally recognized Tigers is a chance to measure themselves against one of Division III's elite programs. For Trinity, it's about maintaining focus, defending their reputation, and proving once again why they are national contenders. Fans can expect a match driven by energy and pride, as the Tigers look to build on last year's energetic performance.

On the MIT Engineers: The Tigers' upcoming clash with MIT presents one of the most intriguing matchups of the early season. Ranked No. 12 nationally, the Engineers enter the contest with a reputation for discipline and technical ability that has made them one of the most respected programs in Division III.
 
This will mark the first-ever meeting between Trinity and MIT, setting the stage for a fresh but highly anticipated matchup. While the two teams have never shared the field before, both are considered national contenders with postseason pedigree, making this a game with national implications beyond just the regular-season schedule. For the Tigers, the matchup provides a valuable test against a ranked opponent and a chance to measure themselves against one of the nation's elite. MIT will bring an organized style of play, but Trinity's pace, creativity, and ability to stretch defenses could pose problems for the Engineers.
 
With two nationally recognized programs colliding for the first time, the game promises to be fast, competitive, and filled with quality soccer. For Trinity, it's not just an opportunity to prove their place among the best in Division III, it's a chance to make a statement on the national stage and prove they are a force to be reckoned with.
 
Looking Forward 
 
The Tigers will return home the following weekend to face off against familiar opponents Hardin-Simmons and McMurry University. Both matchups carry a sense of anticipation, as the Tigers met these same teams during their 2024 season and came away with decisive 3–0 victories in each contest. Those wins not only highlighted the team's offensive depth but also showcased a defensive unit that refused to give up ground. Facing them again provides the Tigers an opportunity to reaffirm their dominance, while Hardin-Simmons and McMurry will no doubt be looking for redemption. With home-field advantage and a proven track record, the Tigers will aim to extend their winning streak and build momentum as the season progresses.