MONTGOMERY, Ala. – The Southern States Athletic Conference announced its 2025 women's soccer end-of-year awards this week, with several members of the University of Tennessee Southern program earning recognition for their outstanding seasons. The honors come as the Firehawks continue their postseason run, advancing to the SSAC Semifinals, where they will face Life University tomorrow at 1:30 p.m. in Montgomery, Alabama.
UT Southern (11-5-2, 7-3-1 SSAC) has continued its strong tradition under head coach Will Austin, the all-time winningest coach in program history. Behind an explosive offense and a disciplined defensive core, the Firehawks have built another winning campaign while placing multiple players among the conference's elite.
First-Team All-Conference
Kamilia Tayebi – Forward
Tayebi has powered the Firehawks' attack throughout the season, leading the team with 15 goals and three assists for 33 total points. Her four game-winners and efficient .375 shot percentage highlight her ability to convert chances at a high rate. Tayebi's leadership and finishing touch have been instrumental in UT Southern's league-best 4.0 goals per game average.
Mia Saum – Midfielder
A steadying force in the midfield, Saum contributed five goals and three assists while controlling tempo and creating opportunities in transition. Her vision and distribution helped the Firehawks maintain one of the most balanced and dynamic offenses in the SSAC.
Millie Rayner – Defender
Rayner's debut season has been nothing short of spectacular. The freshman defender earned First-Team All-Conference and All-Freshman Team honors after producing 14 goals, 2 assists, and 30 total points on 49 shots for a .286 shot percentage. She recorded two game-winning goals while anchoring a defense that posted seven shutouts. Rayner's ability to contribute on both ends of the field made her one of the league's most complete first-year players.
Second-Team All-Conference
Hikaru Uchida – Forward
Uchida made an immediate impact in her first season with the Firehawks, posting six goals and six assists in 14 matches. She was perfect from the penalty spot (4-for-4) and provided key offensive moments during conference play. Her technical skill and creativity added another layer to UT Southern's multi-dimensional attack.
Kendra Brungardt – Defender
Brungardt served as a defensive leader across 16 appearances, helping hold opponents to 1.65 goals per game. Her communication and physical play stabilized the Firehawk back line throughout the season. Off the field, Brungardt also excelled academically, earning a spot on the Athletic Solutions All-Academic Team.
All-Freshman Team
Millie Rayner – Defender
Riho Masuya – Midfielder – Masuya led UT Southern with 12 assists, adding three goals while orchestrating play through the midfield with impressive composure and awareness.
Osiris Rodriguez – Midfielder – Rodriguez finished her first collegiate season with six goals and four assists, including two game-winners in SSAC play.
Champions of Character Team
Karis Knaggs
Knaggs represented UT Southern for her integrity, leadership, and sportsmanship, both on the field and in the community.
Athletic Solutions All-Academic Team
Ten Firehawks earned conference academic honors for their achievements in the classroom: Jamie Brown, Kendra Brungardt, Anna Franklin, Molly Gross, Caroline Hathcox, Stephanie Hodgson, Karis Knaggs, Karla Montiel, Hikaru Uchida, and Ellie Walker.
UT Southern's 2025 season has featured one of the top scoring offenses in the conference, outscoring opponents 68-28 and holding a +40 goal differential. The Firehawks were 7-1 at Grissom Pitch Pitch and have shown exceptional balance between veteran leadership and freshman contributions.
The Firehawks will face Life University in the SSAC Semifinal on Saturday at 1:30 p.m. in Montgomery, Alabama.
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