As the spring semester pushes down the final stretch, UVM concludes an athletic year filled with records, accomplishments and success.
Traveling all the way back to the fall season, the men’s soccer team set the table for what would be an incredible year for UVM Athletics. Following a disappointing end to conference play after being upset in the opening round of the America East playoffs, the Catamounts tightened up and went on a very impressive NCAA Tournament push.
The Cats opened up play with a strong 3-1 first round victory at home against the Rider Broncs. The Cats then traveled down to Orlando, FL to take on the No. 12 ranked UCF Knights.
After conceding a goal in the game’s opening minute, the Cats played one of their best games of the year. They rallied back to tie the game up at two before 90 minutes passed, sending the match into overtime.
One overtime wasn’t enough to decide the match as it continued into a second overtime period, where senior midfielder Carter Johnson scored in the 105th minute to advance the Catamounts to the Round of 16.
Despite falling to No. 5 ranked West Virginia in a close 2-1 battle, the Catamounts claimed their spot as a top squad in the country, ending the season ranked No. 13 in the nation.
After a strong fall season, the winter campaign of sports began. Starting in the water, the UVM swim and dive team brought their first ever America East title to campus. In addition to the hardware, the Catamounts broke an astonishing seven program records.
Heading over to the hardwood, Patrick Gymnasium was spoiled with performances from both the men’s and women’s basketball teams throughout the year.
The men’s team dominated conference play, posting a 15-1 record against America East opponents. With their strong play and third consecutive America East postseason title, the Catamounts got to participate in the NCAA March Madness tournament for the fourth time in the past five seasons.
Despite a loss in the America East Championship Final, resulting in no March Madness appearance, the women’s basketball team still made program history. After a heartbreaking loss in the Conference Finals against Maine, the Catamounts still qualified for postseason play and they took full advantage of this golden opportunity.
