National collegiate women’s soccer championship kicking it in coastal Alabama

OBA Staff • November 16, 2023

NAIA Women’s Soccer National Championship taking place Nov. 27 to Dec. 4, 2023

Foley, Ala. – (OBA) – The 2023 NAIA Women's Soccer National Championship will be held in Foley, Alabama, from November 27 to December 4. The 16 best small college soccer teams in the country will compete for the championship title. The event has been held on the Alabama Gulf Coast since 2012 and has become a popular tradition for teams and local businesses.

The NAIA's Honorary Coach initiative pairs local business leaders with teams to provide support and mentorship. The NAIA also gives back to the community through Teaming Up for Character™ events, where student-athletes demonstrate soccer skills and discuss the NAIA's core values with local schoolchildren.

Brian Harsany, the proprietor of Cosmo’s Restaurant & Bar, Cobalt The Restaurant, GTs on the Bay, and several other dining establishments in Orange Beach, has been an honorary coach since 2012. In this year's championship, his team occupies 10 out of 16 positions designated for honorary coaches. “I have thoroughly enjoyed being an honorary coach through the years,” noted Harsany. “It’s fulfilling being able to welcome these student-athletes to our island paradise, helping them with any needs they may have while being our guests.”

“Our coastal community has embraced the NAIA over the years and loves welcoming each team, family and fan, cheering for them on and off the field,” said Michelle Russ, vice president of sales, sports and events at GSOB Sports & Events. “Many of our sponsor business leaders serve as ‘honorary coaches’ to the teams on the sidelines, in the destination during their stay and throughout the year as they stay in touch.”

All games will take place at the Foley Sports Tourism Championship Stadium, with the top 16 on Monday, Nov. 27, and Tuesday, Nov. 28; the quarterfinals Thursday, Nov. 30; the semifinals Saturday, Dec. 2; and the championship Monday, Dec. 4. All games will be streamed live on the NAIA Network except for the championship game, which will be streamed live on ESPN3.

The Championship Celebration will begin at 6 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 26, at the Orange Beach Event Center at The Wharf in Orange Beach, and the Semifinalist Luncheon will commence at 12:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 1, at Magnolia Hall in Orange Beach – both events open to the public. Tickets may be purchased at the door for $25 each.

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