Pepperdine University Women’s Soccer (3-2-2) is set to host the University of Arizona Women’s Soccer team (3-3-1) for their final home non-conference Senior Day match on Sunday, September 13, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. PT in Malibu, California.
The Waves enter the match following a dominant 4-0 road victory over Fresno State, a game in which freshman midfielder Fiona McCormick scored her first two goals of the season. Pepperdine was unanimously selected to finish first in the West Coast Conference by the coaches poll, marking them as early favorites to defend their conference title.
Senior Stars Lead the Charge
Senior leaders Peyton Leonard, Julia Quinonez, and Kyra Murphy are key contributors for the Waves. Quinonez leads the team with five goals in seven matches this season and is listed on the MAC Hermann Trophy watch list, recognizing her among the nation’s elite players. Leonard, a defender from Ladera Ranch, California, and Murphy, an experienced fifth-year midfielder, were all named to the preseason all-conference team for the third consecutive year.
In goal, junior Jillian Medvecky serves as a strong defensive anchor, boasting a 1.23 goals-against average and 123 saves over two seasons. Pepperdine’s defense is further bolstered by Leonard and junior Lily Stewart, who collectively have 83 starts and have contributed offensively with 10 goals.
Historical Edge and Game Significance
Pepperdine holds a commanding 12-1-2 advantage in the all-time series against Arizona, including a 3-0 win in 2025 where Quinonez, Murphy, and Alex Pendleton scored goals. This match serves as a significant Senior Day event and includes mental health awareness programming and distribution of awareness pins, underscoring the program’s commitment to holistic student-athlete support.
The Wildcats enter the contest off a 3-0 home triumph against Northern Arizona and feature a goalkeeper with a 1.25 goals-against average, Sophia Cortes-Browne. Arizona’s balanced attack includes three players with multiple goals this season.
Experienced Coaching and Program Excellence
Head Coach Tim Ward, in his 28th year leading Pepperdine women’s soccer, has achieved over 300 wins, six WCC championships, and five West Coast Conference Coach of the Year awards. Under his leadership, the program has appeared in 14 NCAA tournaments and produced 10 national team players.
Broadcast Information and Fan Engagement
The match will be broadcast live on ESPN+ with real-time statistics available on Pepperdine’s official athletics website. Mental health awareness activities will commence approximately 15 minutes before kickoff at 11:45 a.m., inviting fans to engage in the event beyond the game.
CSB Take
This Senior Day match is a pivotal moment for Pepperdine University Women’s Soccer to showcase its senior leaders and maintain momentum from a strong start to the season. The program’s sustained excellence, highlighted by significant coaching tenure and player accolades, sets a high standard as the Waves head into conference play. Beyond the action on the field, the match’s focus on mental health awareness reflects the team’s dedication to fostering an environment that supports the well-being of its student-athletes comprehensively.
Source: Original report
