Villanova women to host UNC, play Philly Soccer Six and Big East schedule this spring

College soccer is returning to the area after a year hiatus forced by Covid-19 and it’s shaping up to be an interesting time for fans of local colleges.

Villanova women released a 16-game schedule on Thursday highlighted by a visit from national powerhouse UNC, five games against Philly Soccer Six opponents in February and a tough Big East schedule for March and April.

The UNC game follows a 2019 fall season that saw 2018 national champions Florida State come to town and continues to show the ambition of the Chris McLain-led program.

In addition to hosting the 21-time national champions, the Wildcats will host Temple on February 18, Saint Joseph’s on February 21, UConn March 7, Georgetown March 11, Seton Hall March 18, St. John’s March 21 and Providence April 4.

Unlike a typical spring when games don’t count toward conference titles or tournament bids, this spring season will culminate in a postseason with a coveted NCAA Tournament berth on the line.

Villanova is the third area women’s program to release their schedule. Temple and Delaware both released their schedules earlier this week.