HAMPTON, Va. (June 17, 2025) … The Hampton University women's soccer team will head into new territory heading into the 10th year of the program as the Pirates will play their first game in a professional stadium this fall.

On August 17 at 3:00 p.m., Hampton will take on Howard in the inaugural HBCU Women's Soccer Invitational at Audi Field in Washington, D.C. The Pirates have never played on a professional pitch and face their rival on the field that is home to the Washington Spirit of the National Women's Soccer League and D.C. United of Major League Soccer.

Last season, these teams played to a scoreless draw at Powhatan Field in Norfolk.

"This is a historic moment for Hampton University women's soccer and our entire athletics program," said Anthony D. Henderson, Sr., Director of Athletics at Hampton University. "Playing at Audi Field not only showcases the growth and potential of our student-athletes but also reflects our commitment to providing them with elite experiences."

"Being able to play at a venue like Audi Field it just adds to the excitement of the Battle of the Real HU. With Howard coming off a great season, winning their conference, and with us making a drastic improvement with the program and getting our first ever result against them, it's going to be an amazing experience for both programs and will help elevate HBCU women's soccer," said Hampton University Head Coach Scot Vorwold.

Hampton will return a pair of top goal scorers from 2024 in Ellen Van Caenegem (3 goals, 1 assist, 7 points), and Nylah Jennings (2 goals, 2 assists, 6 points). Keri Geter and Evan-Nichole Whitaker, a pair of solid defenders from last season, will help spearhead the backline. Avery John, who started 10 matches in goal last season and had a save percentage of .709, will return this year.

Howard (11-5-5 in 2024) won the Northeast Conference last season and advanced to the NCAA Tournament, where they fell 8-0 at Duke in the opening round.

General tickets, group tickets, and suites for the HBCU Women's Soccer Invitational went on sale to the general public at 10 a.m. ET on Tuesday, June 17. Tickets are available for purchase HERE.