Western Michigan Captures Second Straight MAC Tournament Title

Jonathan Turner
Nov 8, 2025
3 min read

NATIONAL SOCCER NEWS: www.nationalsoccernetwork.com

Western Michigan Captures Second Straight MAC Tournament Title

COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Western Michigan women’s soccer team continued its championship form Friday night, earning a 1-0 victory over Bowling Green at Historic Crew Stadium to claim its second consecutive MAC Tournament Championship.

With the win, the Broncos secured their return to the NCAA Tournament for the second straight year. Over the last three seasons, Western Michigan has captured five Mid-American Conference titles — three regular-season and two tournament crowns — cementing its place as one of the MAC’s premier programs.

Head coach Lewis Robinson praised his team’s consistency and commitment throughout the year.

“We’re always very appreciative within our program to receive accolades and awards that are a true reflection of team success,” Robinson said earlier in the week. “I am proud of our team and coaching staff for their hard work and commitment to elevate our program again to a championship season.”

Photo Courtesy of Western Michgian University

First Half

Both teams opened the match cautiously, with the first shot not coming until nearly nine minutes into play. Western Michigan’s first opportunity came in the 24th minute when Meredith Vance tested the Bowling Green goalkeeper with a strong effort.

Mira Pierre-Webster fired just wide in the 33rd minute, while Reagan Sulaver came up with a diving save late in the half to preserve the scoreless tie heading into the break.

Second Half

The Broncos came out energized in the second half, earning early corner kicks and pressing forward. In the 60th minute, the breakthrough came as Drew Martin sent a perfectly placed ball into the box, finding Heidi Thomasma, who buried a header for the match’s lone goal — her third of the season.

Martin’s assist tied the program’s single-season record, while Sulaver closed out the night with three saves to secure her 10th shutout of the year.

Thomasma was named Tournament MVP, joined on the All-Tournament Team by Martin, Vance, and Ava Beckett.

Coach’s Perspective

Reflecting on the championship atmosphere and the program’s growth, Robinson expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to compete on such a stage.

“We’re really excited to be back here in the MAC Championship game,” Robinson said. “The season has been one filled with challenges, and we feel we have really improved down the stretch here into tournament time. Playing in tournaments like this and events like Friday night at Historic Crew Stadium is always a privilege for our program, and we’re going to make the most of it and enjoy every moment.”

2025 MAC Women’s Soccer All-Tournament Team

Addie Chester, Ball State
Kate Pallante, Ball State
Payton O’Malley, Bowling Green
Audrey Oliver, Bowling Green
Taylor Green, Bowling Green
Dominque Popa, Miami
Shae Taylor, Miami
Drew Martin, Western Michigan
Meredith Vance, Western Michigan
Heidi Thomasma, Western Michigan*
Ava Beckett, Western Michigan

*Tournament MVP

Up Next

The Broncos now await their NCAA Tournament placement, with the Selection Show scheduled for Monday, Nov. 10 at 4 p.m. (ET). Western Michigan will make its second consecutive NCAA Tournament appearance, continuing an impressive run under Robinson’s leadership.