The 2023-2024 sports year at the University of Virginia (UVA) has been nothing short of historic, especially for women’s athletics. As we reflect on the achievements of UVA’s female athletes and teams, it’s clear that the year has marked a significant turning point, not just in the success of individual performances but in the growing visibility, strength, and influence of women’s sports at one of the nation’s premier academic institutions.
Reflecting on a Year of Incredible Achievement by Women’s Sports at Virginia
A number of Virginia women’s sports programs had successful seasons in 2024. For instance, softball’s ACC record of 15-9 was a huge improvement over the previous season’s 8-16 record. After an 11–17 season in 2023, volleyball also improved its overall record to 21–11.
Raising the Bar: A Year of Unmatched Success
The past year has seen Virginia’s women’s teams dominate on the national stage, shattering records, earning accolades, and bringing home championships that will be remembered for years to come.
One of the standout stories has been the success of UVA’s women’s lacrosse team. Under the leadership of head coach Julie Myers, the Cavaliers had one of their most successful seasons in program history, clinching a spot in the NCAA Final Four. The team’s journey to this milestone was a testament to their talent, determination, and hard work. Players like Lindsay Podlaski and Emma Grzyb became household names, earning All-American honors while making Virginia proud with their impressive performances.
Another major achievement came from the UVA women’s soccer team, which had a stellar campaign in the NCAA Tournament. With a blend of youth and experience, the Cavaliers advanced deep into the postseason, securing a national ranking and finishing among the top teams in the country. The standout performances of sophomore Rebecca Jarrett and senior Alexa Spaanstra, combined with a rock-solid defense led by Maggie Cagle, helped solidify Virginia’s status as one of the premier programs in women’s college soccer.
In basketball, the UVA women’s team continued to make waves under the leadership of head coach Tina Thompson, an iconic figure in women’s sports. The Cavaliers showcased their resilience and team-oriented play, reaching the NCAA tournament and leaving a lasting impression on fans and opponents alike. The emergence of rising star Cameron Swartz, who contributed both offensively and defensively, set the tone for future seasons.
Incredible Individual Accomplishments
While team achievements have been impressive, the individual accomplishments by UVA’s women athletes in 2023-2024 deserve special mention. One of the most remarkable stories of the year came from Erin Saunders, a senior on the UVA women’s track and field team. Saunders set a new school record in the 400-meter hurdles, which earned her a trip to the NCAA Championships. Her determination, discipline, and unwavering focus on excellence were evident all season long, serving as an inspiration to both her teammates and aspiring athletes around the country.
In swimming, Kate Douglass has once again cemented her status as one of the most accomplished swimmers in NCAA history. Douglass dominated at the NCAA Championships, claiming multiple gold medals in the freestyle and butterfly events. Her dominance in the pool, alongside her leadership and sportsmanship, exemplified what it means to be an elite student-athlete, balancing excellence both academically and athletically.
Title IX: A Foundation for Growth and Equity
This wave of success in women’s sports at UVA is not just a reflection of individual and team talent, but also a recognition of the systemic progress achieved through Title IX. The landmark 1972 federal legislation that prohibits discrimination based on sex in educational programs and activities, including sports, has played a critical role in opening doors for female athletes at UVA and across the country. In the 50+ years since Title IX was enacted, we’ve seen exponential growth in opportunities for women to compete at the highest levels of sport. The 2023-2024 season at UVA is a testament to how far women’s sports have come and the promising future ahead.
UVA has long been a leader in promoting gender equity in athletics, providing female student-athletes with the resources and support necessary to excel. From cutting-edge training facilities to top-tier coaching, UVA has created an environment where women can thrive both in competition and in the classroom. As more female athletes gain national recognition, it’s clear that the momentum created by Title IX is still reverberating through UVA’s programs.
Community Support and Engagement
An often-overlooked aspect of women’s sports success is the role of community support. Throughout the past year, UVA’s women’s teams have seen their fanbases grow exponentially. From packed crowds at the women’s basketball games to the loud cheers at soccer and lacrosse matches, the UVA community has fully embraced its women’s teams. This cultural shift toward greater visibility and support of women’s athletics is a testament to the hard work of players, coaches, and administrators alike, but also to the increasing recognition of women’s sports as a central part of UVA’s identity.
Additionally, UVA’s student-athletes have embraced their roles as leaders within the community. From youth clinics to fundraising events, they have worked to inspire the next generation of athletes and foster a culture of inclusivity. These efforts not only amplify the impact of women’s sports at UVA but also contribute to a broader movement that is transforming the landscape of athletics on a national level.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future
While 2023-2024 has been a year of remarkable achievement for UVA’s women’s sports teams, it’s just the beginning. The foundation laid by these athletes and coaches will pave the way for even greater success in the future. As more young women are inspired by the performances of Kate Douglass, Lindsay Podlaski, Erin Saunders, and others, it’s clear that the next generation of athletes at UVA is poised for greatness.
UVA’s women’s sports programs will continue to build on this momentum, striving for excellence in every competition, and pushing boundaries in ways that inspire the entire university community. The accomplishments of this past year remind us all that the power of women in sports is undeniable — and the University of Virginia will continue to be a leading force in that power for years to come.
In short, 2023-2024 has been a landmark year for UVA’s women’s sports, one filled with triumphs and milestones that will leave an indelible mark on the university’s rich athletic history. It’s a time to celebrate, reflect, and look ahead to e
