Lewis and Clark Women’s Soccer Focused on Individual Growth During Competitive Spring Slate

GODFREY, Ill. — While the scoreboard matters, development is the true priority for Lewis and Clark Community College women's soccer this spring.

Head coach Justin Bernaix says the program is using its five-match spring schedule as a foundation for long-term growth,  both for sophomores preparing to transfer and freshmen working to carve out larger roles heading into the fall 2026 season.

"We are focused on playing well as a team this spring, but we are really emphasizing individual player development," Bernaix said. "For our sophomores, that means preparing to move on to four-year programs. For our freshmen, it's about pushing to make an impact next fall."

The Trailblazers open March 10 at UMSL before hosting UIS on March 28. They travel to McKendree on April 1, face Missouri Baptist on April 11 and close the spring April 26 at Southeast Missouri State.

Bernaix emphasized that development extends beyond match days.

"For the freshmen in particular, intentional work off the field through strength and conditioning, dialing in nutrition and recovery habits, and improving position-specific abilities are key," he said.

The spring schedule features several four-year programs, offering a higher level of competition that Bernaix believes is valuable, but not necessarily in the traditional sense.

"The spring provides opportunities to play against quality four-year programs, but for us it's more a measure of how the girls compete individually," he said. "With 14 new players coming in next fall, our team dynamic will evolve. Right now, it's about helping players perform under pressure and deal with challenges. That's what sets them up for the fall season."

This spring also represents a unique crossroads for the roster. Some sophomores are preparing to transfer, while others will step away from competitive soccer to focus on academics and careers. Meanwhile, first-year players are laying the groundwork for future leadership roles.

"The excitement comes from watching these slightly divergent student-athlete paths still align to support each other as teammates," Bernaix said. "That's special."

Two matchups on the schedule carry added significance. The Trailblazers will face UMSL and Southeast Missouri State, programs that feature recent Lewis and Clark standouts Maddy Kuhn and Laia Amat, both NJCAA All-Americans.

"It's always exciting to watch former LC players compete at the next level," Bernaix said. "Those games will be a cool opportunity for our current players to reconnect with former teammates."

As the Trailblazers move through the spring slate, Bernaix's message to his players remains simple.

"Be present," he said. "Enjoy this time competing with your teammates and friends."

For Lewis and Clark, the spring isn't just about results,  it's about building the foundation for what comes next.

Written by: Alexandra Dunn, Athletics Social Media Coordinator