Unfinished Business: UPEI Women’s Soccer chasing playoff breakthrough

By Thomas Becker

Change has come to UPEI women's soccer, bringing with it a renewed fire and an unshakable drive for success.

At the heart of this transformation is new head coach Jed Davies, who has already left a profound imprint on the program. Last season, the Panthers finished 1-8-3 and scored just eight goals. For many programs, those numbers would be discouraging. For Davies, they represent opportunity.

"What excites me most is the hunger within this group," he said. "Yes, this is a program that has struggled, but that also means there's incredible room for growth. The opportunity to reshape a culture, to build belief, and to chase a bold dream together—that's exciting."

Since taking charge in December, Davies has demanded more from his players, and they've responded. The Panthers have logged more than 75 hours of training and classroom sessions, with many players shaving significant time off their fitness tests and embracing a new culture of accountability. Regular one-on-one video sessions, structured leadership development, and a focus on curiosity over ego are already reshaping the team's identity.

"The group may look similar on paper," Davies explained, "but mentally and physically, this is a completely different team."

Leaders at the core

The Panthers' veterans are central to the culture shift. At the back, Emma Parker and Olivia James provide both defensive stability and a competitive edge that raises the standard daily. At the same time, goalkeeper Claudia Mazzei will serve as the last line of defence.

"The thing that gives me the most confidence is our coaching staff, especially Jed," Parker said. "He's given us a clear vision and built a culture that pushes us to grow each day. I'm excited to see how our focus and hard work translates to success."

In the midfield, co-captain Lydia Hamill has been equally influential. After spending part of her summer participating in The Soccer Tournament (TST), a high-stakes 7v7 world championship that pit her against NCAA and professional players, Hamill returned to Charlottetown with a renewed drive, something she sees reflected across the squad.

"Last season came with its challenges, but there's a completely different energy in the team now," Hamill said. "Over the past eight months, more than 20 players have been showing up four days a week at 6 am. That kind of commitment says a lot. There are more smiles, more belief, and a real sense that we're enjoying the game."

Second-year midfielder Juliette Bader is another player to watch. She made an immediate impact as a rookie with a two-goal debut against Memorial and also competed in TST to further elevate her game. Her blend of creativity and determination could help unlock the offence that UPEI lacked a year ago.

Fresh faces, fresh belief

The Panthers also welcome seven new players this fall, each bringing experience and ambition that will raise the standard across the roster. Headlining the class is Olivia Chen, who spent time with Vancouver Rise, trained with the Canada Soccer National Development Centre, and earned an invitation to train with Bayern Munich. Dounia El Abdi, who has trained with Moroccan national team players, adds another level of intensity and hunger as she pursues her professional dreams.

"These players already feel inspired by the environment we're building," Davies said. "And soon, they'll be the ones inspiring others."

Eyes on the future

For UPEI, the goal of making the playoffs this year is within sight. But Davies is equally clear that success will be measured by more than standings.

"Success for us is about transformation, proving to ourselves that with the right culture and the right habits, we can change the narrative," he said. "If we can look back and say we worked with relentless commitment, stayed curious, and didn't let fear define us, then that will be a success, regardless of where the standings place us."

With a new coach, a new culture, and a locker room buzzing with belief, the Panthers are ready to write the next chapter. And for the first time in a while, it feels like a story worth believing in.

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