South Lake Tahoe, Calif. – Nevada women's soccer captured the best of both worlds when they competed in an exhibition against UC Davis and soaked in the wonders of Lake Tahoe on Friday.

Friday's day trip to Lake Tahoe not only provided an opportunity for Nevada women's soccer to grow on the field, but continue to build their strong team chemistry.

"The camaraderie with our team is great," head coach Erin Otagaki said. "Our players were not only excited to be playing, but they were also excited for their teammates when they were on the bench. Overall, I think we have a great team chemistry and camaraderie right now and I love that they are excited for their teammates."

The day began with a quick visit to Lake Tahoe's Sand Harbor to take the team photo and soak in the immaculate views. For some members of the Pack, Friday's day trip was their first taste of the Tahoe experience.

Players had heard about beautiful views Tahoe has to offer and the convenience of it being only an hour away from Nevada's campus. Once they laid their eyes on the majestic mountains and the bright blue lake, they were even more in awe.

"Honestly, it was really cool," fifth-year transfer Zona Kinnaman said. "I did not expect Nevada to have such pretty mountains and a giant lake. I love lakes and water skiing. My family grew up doing that. It was really cool to be around that atmosphere and take team pictures there."

As the exhibition against UC Davis at Lake Tahoe Community College got under way, the Pack used their excitement and energy to make significant plays. Three of Nevada's goalkeepers collected a save, with freshman Ally Larkin snagging one right before the first half and another to open the second half.

The Pack discovered their strengths and what they need to improve on as a team, but their adaptability to the flow of the game gave Nevada the belief to compete.

"Whenever you make a big play, it always boosts your confidence and your teammates' confidence," Larkin said. "It serves as a reminder that you can do it, you've practiced, you've worked for those moments. It's all about believing in yourself and letting yourself do what you know how to do."

Nevada women's soccer is looking to build off its strongest Mountain West performance since joining the league in 2012. The Pack collected four wins and two ties in conference play last season, accumulating 14 points. Nevada returns eight starters from last season, including their top four leading scorers. 

The Pack open the 2022 regular season on Thursday at UC Riverside at 7:30 p.m.

Season tickets are just $25, which includes admission to all seven home games along with an exclusive Wolf Pack scarf while supplies last. Single game tickets start at just $5 and are available for online purchase on Monday, Aug. 15. Nevada students get free admission with Wolf Pack ID for all home games. Click here to purchase tickets and for more information.

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