The year 2023 marks the 30th anniversary of the inaugural women's soccer season at Saint Louis University, celebrating key milestones, including the 1999 Billikens team that won the Conference USA championship. The team, which boasts a school-record 10-game unbeaten streak, finished with a remarkable 14-3-3 overall record and won the regular-season title, the first in the program鈥檚 history. Although they faced a surprising first-round exit in the C-USA tournament, their overall performance set numerous school records and positioned them as a foundation for future success. Notably, key players Meghann Burke and Trisha Underberg received multiple accolades, highlighting their contributions during this historic season. The 1999 team was rightfully inducted into the Billiken Hall of Fame in 2007.

By the Numbers
  • 1999 Billikens achieved a 14-3-3 overall record.
  • They set school records with 43 goals scored and just 14 goals allowed.
  • Meghann Burke recorded 10 shutouts, a freshman record that still stands.
  • The team had a school-record 10-game unbeaten streak of 9-0-1.
Yes, But

While the 1999 season showcased exceptional talent and multiple records, the early exit from the C-USA tournament sparked debates about the team's potential versus the outcome. Some critics argue that greater strategic focus could have led to a deeper tournament run.

State of Play
  • The 1999 team鈥檚 performance was a turning point for SLU women's soccer, leading to heightened expectations in subsequent years.
  • Recent seasons have seen the program building upon the legacies set by teams like the 1999 Billikens.
What's Next

The legacy of the 1999 Billikens is likely to inspire current and future teams, potentially guiding them to pursue similar achievements as the program continues to evolve and aim for new titles. Future updates may reflect on the impact these milestones have on recruiting and team development.

Bottom Line

The 1999 Billikens not only laid down a historic benchmark for SLU women's soccer but also set an inspiring example of resilience and success that continues to influence the program three decades later.