Saint Mary’s soccer concluded their season last fall with a stunning 8-5-3 overall record, a testament to each athlete’s contribution to the team’s success with their unique talents and wide variety of skills. Even though the Belles finished off their fall season on Oct. 28, 2025 with a loss to Hope College, their commitment toward improving as a team persevered through the last seconds on the clock. And since, they have continued practicing throughout the spring term in preparation for the 2026 fall season.
Farkhod Kurbonov has coached the Belles since 2023, and his undeniable dedication to the team is evident in his guidance and instruction. Kurbonov highlighted the 2025 soccer season was notably distinct from past seasons.
“We broke more records this year, as this was our best record in 13 years. We had a very special group of players this year that played really good quality soccer,” he said.
Kayla O’Neal, a sophomore center back from Carlsbad, California, joined the team this past season after transferring from Illinois Tech. She was immediately impressed by the close knit nature of the team and reflected on one of her favorite memories from the year.
“Right when we started the season, we had our fitness test. Everyone worked so hard and put in lots of effort. Luckily, we all ended up all passing. To celebrate, we all hung out in one of the senior’s apartments and ate ice cream,” O’Neal said. ”It was such a great team bonding experience and a great way to start the season.”
While O’Neal had a smooth transition to the soccer team itself, she found challenges presented to her along the way, such as changing positions to adapting to new playing strategies.
“With my old team, I played right back. Saint Mary’s was different because we played with five athletes in the back instead of four. I went from playing the outside back right position to right center back. Shifting my mentality from playing wide to playing center was definitely a challenge for me,” O’Neal said.
Despite the Belles’ enticing record, several athletes unfortunately faced injuries as the season progressed. Kurbonov recounted many of the injuries were accrued just before crucial conference games, but believed the team took their setbacks in stride.
“We have a pretty good depth on the team and I am glad everyone was ready to step in and make an immediate impact regardless of their class and experience,” Kurbonov said.
Despite facing the challenges of injuries in important moments, Saint Mary’s soccer has proven true success results from profound sportsmanship rather than individual talent. Kurbonov contributes the team’s achievements to their chemistry.
“The main reason we succeeded as a team was due to the unity of the team and how everyone genuinely cared about the program: great teamwork from the coaching staff, incoming players fitting in right away and, of course, the sense of belonging on the team and love for one another,” Kurbonov said.
As the Belles begin their summer vacation, they look forward to welcoming the incoming freshman this fall and reestablishing a close bond with everyone. At the same time, the 2026 fall season offers plenty of opportunities for growth as a team.
