APPLETON, Wis. — Lawrence University women's soccer will add a new tradition to its schedule today as the Vikings meet Concordia University Wisconsin in the inaugural OH SNAP! Bowl.
The match, scheduled for 4 p.m. at Concordia Wisconsin, marks the beginning of an annual competition between the Vikings and Falcons centered around the joy of the game, bringing people together through soccer and celebrating the student-athletes who compete.
Adding to the stakes of the new matchup, Lawrence and Concordia Wisconsin will compete for a traveling trophy that will be awarded for the first time following today's match. The trophy will remain with the winning program until the teams meet again in the next edition of the OH SNAP! Bowl.
The event is supported by OH SNAP! Pickling Co., helping turn the matchup into a unique annual tradition for both programs.
"This event is about celebrating the 'joy of the game,'" said Ryan Downs Sr., Chairman of the Board, Emeritus. "It is about celebrating these young people who have dedicated so much to their sport and being able to create connections through competition is something very special. My family are so excited to support this sporting event!"
For Lawrence Director of Soccer Joe Sagar, the inaugural match represents an opportunity to establish a tradition that extends beyond the result on the field.
"This is such a special occasion for all of the people involved," Sagar said. "The Downs family have been so supportive and welcoming to me personally since I arrived at Lawrence. Soccer is a global sport and one that transcends social, political, cultural boundaries. The OH SNAP! Bowl is going to connect so many people together through competition, which is a special thing. It also helps that everyone loves pickles!
"In all seriousness, the support and encouragement of the OH SNAP! company is something that I am proud and grateful to have received. I am excited to start an exciting chapter of competition with Concordia that we can celebrate for many years to come."
Senior captain Izzy Robertson said the new matchup adds another level of excitement for the Vikings.
"I am so excited for the inaugural Pickle Bowl!" Robertson said. "Having the opportunity to play in a competitive match with something fun at stake truly makes me feel like our program is trending in the right direction. Having a supply of OH SNAP! pickles is the cherry (pickle) on top!"
Kickoff between Lawrence and Concordia Wisconsin is set for 4 p.m. today.
