UC Merced’s women’s soccer team has turned a low preseason prediction into a Final Four appearance, putting the Bobcats in position to pursue another first for the program. A little more than two months after being picked to finish 10th in the California Collegiate Athletic Association, the team is awaiting Monday’s bracket announcement with hopes of securing its first national tournament berth.
The results may have exceeded expectations outside the program, but head coach Roman DuChateau said his players began the season with confidence. He recalled discussing their underdog status early on and telling the team to appreciate that position while it lasted, because he did not expect them to remain there for long.
For senior forward Jocelin Roa, the run has been an opportunity to demonstrate the players’ shared determination. She said the team’s desire to succeed has made showing that commitment on the field especially exciting. That outlook reflects the belief the Bobcats have maintained throughout a season that has taken them well beyond their projected conference finish.
The program’s path to this point began with DuChateau’s arrival as head coach in 2022. Two years ago, he guided UC Merced to its first quarterfinal appearance in the NAIA. Looking back on that achievement, he credited the players for embracing the team’s purpose and putting in the effort needed to pursue it.
DuChateau then led the Bobcats into Division II competition in 2025. This season brought a personal milestone alongside the team’s progress: he became the winningest women’s soccer coach in UC Merced history.
The coach said he wants to retire in the Central Valley and continue winning at UC Merced. Reflecting on reaching 49 victories, he also spoke about his ambitions to reach 100 and 200 wins as he keeps building on his record with the Bobcats.
For now, the next opportunity rests with the brackets due Monday. UC Merced is hoping its season will include a first trip to the national tournament, extending a run that has already carried the team to the Final Four.
Junior midfielder Andrea Alvarenga Torres expressed gratitude for her teammates and the chance to participate in the program’s history. She said the Bobcats deserve their opportunity and must now demonstrate what they can do.
