ROCHESTER, Mich. – The Golden Grizzlies will open their 2025 regular season with a pair of non-conference matchups to kick off their redemption campaign.
With a new-look roster featuring Power Five transfer standouts and several high-impact returners, Oakland is poised to be a surprise contender in the Horizon League.
In two exhibition matches, the Golden Grizzlies went unbeaten against Akron and Jackson College. In both outings, the squad showed improved attacking and defensive play, with a mix of on-ball creativity, team chemistry, and grit that reflects head coach Devin Zvosec's style entering his second season at the helm.
Thursday, Aug. 13 at Bowling Green State | 7 p.m.
Oakland opens its season in prime time on the road against the Falcons. The teams met last season, playing to a scoreless early-season draw. In that match, Oakland put on a defensive clinic, stopping all 17 BGSU shots, including seven saves in goal.
The Falcons begin their season at home, looking to rebound after falling in the first round of the 2024 MAC Tournament. They went 7-7-4 last season and were especially strong at Cochrane Stadium, posting a 4-1-3 home record.
BGSU is led by returning All-MAC second-team selection Emme Butera, who recorded seven points on two goals and three assists in 2024.
Sunday, Aug. 17 vs. Valparaiso | 7 p.m.
The Golden Grizzlies will host Valparaiso in their home opener under the lights.
The programs have not met in the regular season since 2019, but Oakland holds a 12-6 all-time advantage and has won four straight and six of the last seven meetings. Over those seven matchups, the Golden Grizzlies have outscored Valpo 15-7, showcasing consistent offensive firepower.
Valparaiso looks to bounce back after finishing 4-13-1 overall and 0-9-1 in conference play last season. The Beacons allowed 43 goals and averaged just 8.8 shots per game in 2024, struggling on both ends of the field.
Aiming to start 2-0 for the first time since 2022, the Golden Grizzlies have the stage set for a high-impact season.
How to Follow Oakland Women's Soccer: For complete information on Oakland Women's Soccer, follow the team on Instagram and X @oaklandwsoc.
