"PRAIRIE VIEW – The Prairie View A&M University women's soccer team opened fall camp on Wednesday under the direction of new Head Coach Abe Garcia.

Garcia is no stranger to the Panther family, he returns after resigning six years ago.  In 10 seasons as head coach, Garcia led the Panthers to one NCAA Tournament appearance, two trips to the SWAC Tournament Championship match, and six trips to the semifinals as the Lady Panthers earned a trip to the SWAC postseason tournament every year. During his tenure, he coached players that earned 27 All-SWAC honors and 13 all-tournament team accolades.

Former PVAMU goalkeeper Alexis Espino has joined coach Garcia's staff as the assistant coach.  Her duties will consist of overseeing the goalkeepers, travel, recruiting, and day-to-day activities for the Lady Panthers soccer team.

"I am excited about the season and being back where I belong," said Garcia.  "Our first day back has been good.  One of the best things that we are trying to do is develop the culture here.  We are trying to put together the best experience for our freshmen, returners, and transfers."

The Lady Panthers soccer team has returned nine players and has added 15 newcomers (eight transfers | seven freshmen).  The team will be looking to return as one of the top contenders in the conference after winning the Southwestern Athletic Championship in 2021.

Prairie View A&M will open their season in 16 days as they prepare to play Sam Houston State on Friday, August 18 for a 6:30 pm first kick.  The full schedule can be found on pvpanthers.com.

Keep up with all the latest news and information for PVAMU athletics by following pvpanthers.com as well as through Twitter via the PVAMU general sports account (@PVAMUPanthers). You can also follow along on Instagram.com/pvamupanthers.