Arkansas. — College sports are finally starting in Central Arkansas, with the women’s soccer team opening competition in Tulsa to officially kick off the 2024-25 year. The Bears will start at Oklahoma, making it their fourth consecutive road game, with kickoff Thursday set for 6 p.m.

Central Arkansas returns much of last season’s roster, including All-ASUN and Midfielder of the Year Kelly Van GundyShe, along with her All-ASUN defender Gabby Thieslead a team that went 8-7-5 last season, with a 7-1-3 performance in the ASUN. The two were important pieces of a team that put up big numbers on both sides of the ball.

Van Gundy was named Midfielder of the Year after scoring 18 points, scoring seven goals and adding four assists. The new senior was among the best in nearly every offensive category in the ASUN last season and will look to build on that success. Thies, on the other hand, led a defense that was among the best in the conference and held in check a back line that didn’t allow more than one goal in any of the 12 conference games.

In the gate, Kajsa Pruner returns after posting six shutouts and allowing just 24 goals in 19 games last year. She was a total hit in ASUN play, allowing six goals in 11 games. She saved five or more possessions in nine games and allowed multiple goals in just five appearances.

This season’s Bear roster features 24 returnees, including eight starters from last season. The team also has 11 new additions that should give the team a mix of depth and athleticism.

Tulsa finished 5-9-5 last season and had a 3-2-4 record in the AAC. They were eliminated from last season’s conference tournament with a 2-1 loss to SMU, but had good wins over UAB and Temple throughout the season.

The Golden Hurricanes have their leading scorer from last season, junior forward Jordan Frederick, back in the team. She scored five goals and added six assists for a season total of 16 points. She was one of three players named to the AAC Women’s Soccer Watch List, along with Hannah Chance and Kaylyn Simmons.

Also returning in goal is Tatum Sanders, a goalie who played 1,300 minutes last year, allowing an average of 1.52 goals, saving 62 shots and recording four solo shutouts.

Thursday’s game will take place at 6 p.m. in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The game against the Golden Hurricane will be streamed on ESPN+, with live stats available online.