Erin Seppi is finding her stride in goal for Maryland women’s soccer

Maryland women’s soccer’s season has primarily revolved around the attack thus far, but the other side of the ball has caught attention for the program this week.

On Tuesday, goalkeeper Erin Seppi was recognized as the Big Ten Co-Goalkeeper of the Week for her performances against George Mason and George Washington. In Sunday’s matchup against the Colonials, the senior recorded a season-high 11 saves.

“I’m definitely trying to play how Erin Seppi does,” Seppi said. “As long as I play like I know I can, I’m able to make any save or try to make any save possible.”

The Terrapins’ last line of defense is new to the stardom on the field, as her fourth year on the team is just her first as Maryland’s starting goalkeeper. Playing behind older players in her first three seasons, Seppi learned all there is to know about the craft.

“The past three years, I have taken every piece of information people have given to me,” Seppi said. “I don’t see those years as wasted, I see them as preparation.”

Maryland’s last two matchups were crucial in the start of the team’s season, and Seppi stepped up when it mattered most. In 180 minutes of action, the goalkeeper only surrendered one goal, giving the Terps attack firepower and more shots.

“I really appreciate her because she’s really done a lot for our team,” forward Mikayla Dayes said. “I just want her to continue to be a leader and be vocal and encourage us all the time.”

The beginning of the season had some ups and downs for Seppi though. In the first two games, she only let one ball through the goal to open up the year with a 2-0 record. Things got a bit dicey in the following weekend. In the matchup against Auburn, Seppi allowed four goals, followed by a five goal slip against Georgia only two days later.

The strong weekend that earned Maryland’s goalkeeper the Big Ten honor lowered her season average to just 1.81 goals allowed per game. This statistic has played a big role in the team’s above .500 record to open up 2019.

The senior has definitely acted as a leader for this Maryland team. Seppi’s defense has won numerous games for the Terps so far this season, and going into Big Ten play will be a big test for the first-year starter.

“She is a confident player and we are confident in her,” head coach Ray Leone said. “I was very happy for her to get recognized for what we already know, she’s a top goalkeeper.”