ALISO VIEJO, Calif. – Soka University Athletics will open another chapter in its women's soccer program as head coach Wendy Espejel steps down from her position.

The Espejel era saw steady growth and historic progress for the Lions. Espejel compiled a 32-40-9 record as head coach, highlighted by the 2025 season in which Soka posted a 9-4-5 record, the best in program history, improving upon a strong 2024 campaign.

Under her leadership, the Lions earned two conference tournament appearances, including a berth in their first season competing in the Great Southwest Athletic Conference.

Espejel also guided the development of student-athletes on and off the field, coaching one Freshman of the Year, one Dr. Jim Davies Award recipient, 13 All-Cal Pac selections, and two GSAC All-Conference selections. In the classroom, her teams excelled, producing 46 Scholar-Athletes and continuing to emphasize academic success alongside athletic achievement.

"Over the past 8 years Wendy has demonstrated a strong commitment to the mission of Soka University of America and the care of our student-athletes," said Director of Athletics Mike Moore. "The integrity sound management practices, success, and exemplary work ethic with which she has brought to the department is recognized and admired. She has laid the continuing foundation for the program's growth. Wendy has given 8 years of distinguished and devoted service to this university, and her friends here will miss her."
 
Espejel began her time with the program in 2017 as an assistant coach, helping build the foundation before taking over as head coach in 2021. Coach Espejel played a key role in building and shaping Soka women's soccer into what it is today.