"Not in our house." It's a phrase commonly invoked by home teams, and interestingly enough, it often works. It is well documented by sports enthusiasts and researchers everywhere that the home team has an inherent advantage in all games. Support from a favorable crowd combines with familiar and comfortable surroundings to tilt the balance in favor of the home team.
It is also well established that home field advantage makes a particular difference in soccer, and nowhere is this more apparent than here in Charlottesville for the Virginia women's soccer team. This season the Cavaliers have used the home environment of Klöckner Stadium to embark on an 11-game unbeaten streak, which has elevated them to No. 4 in the country and a 10-1-4 (4-0-3 ACC) record.
Klöckner Stadium is known as one of the most difficult collegiate soccer venues for an opposing team to play in. First, Klöckner is one of the largest soccer stadiums in the country, and its sheer magnitude can be intimidating for opposing teams. Furthermore, the presence of a raucous and energized crowd at Klöckner can become a significant advantage for Virginia and a disadvantage for opponents.
Virginia sports, throughout the years, have used the advantages offered by the stadium to great success. The Virginia women's soccer team has certainly not been an exception to this rule. In fact, the women's soccer team has been one of the biggest benefactors of the advantages offered by Klöckner Stadium over the years.
"The home crowd gives you an extra lift," junior midfielder Jen Redmond said. "When you're tired the crowd can give you an adrenaline rush. When the crowd goes crazy, it's an unexplainable feeling."
The home field effect was particularly visible last Thursday, when the Cavs defeated the Hokies 2-0 in the contest. It was readily apparent that the home crowd had a lot to do with the victory. During a particularly dangerous stretch of the second half, the fans at Klöckner Stadium seemingly imposed their will against the Hokies. Virginia Tech enjoyed a number of threatening scoring opportunities throughout the period; however, the crowd did its part and energized the Cavaliers. In the end, the stout Virginia defense held the Hokies scoreless and was able to thwart their numerous second-half opportunities.
The support the team received "was superb," Virginia coach Steve Swanson said. "We've been trying to raise support and awareness of our sport in the community, and the community has been fabulous as far as we're concerned."
As is the case with most Virginia sports, the greatest support for the Cavaliers comes from the student body. Thursday's showdown with Virginia Tech was a classic example of how the home crowd affected the outcome. Several student groups appeared at the game to ensure a Cavalier victory in the rivalry contest. Swanson acknowledged the support of the students and showed great appreciation for their attendance and participation.
"I thought our students were great," Swanson said. "The Wahooligans and the Hoo Crew stepped up and were great for us. It was a great environment to play in and they definitely gave us a lift. Hopefully they'll be back"
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