Bulldogs Shine With Five Players Named To United Soccer Coaches All-Southeast Region Team
December 04, 2024 | Soccer
STARKVILLE – The accolades continue to pour in for Mississippi State soccer as five Bulldogs earned spots on the 2024 United Soccer Coaches All-Southeast Region Team. This recognition marks another milestone in a season filled with unprecedented success for the program, solidifying the Bulldogs' position as one of the premier teams in collegiate soccer.
Mississippi State's historic campaign saw four players—Maddy Anderson, Rylie Combs, Macey Hodge, and Ally Perry—named to the First Team, with Alexis Gutierrez earning a spot on the Third Team. This marks the most All-Region honorees in a single season in program history, highlighting the depth and quality of talent across the roster.
Maddy Anderson's inclusion on the First Team is a testament to her dominance in goal throughout the season. The senior goalkeeper was the backbone of the nation's top-ranked defense, leading all Division I goalkeepers in shutout percentage and goals-against average. Anderson's exceptional ability to command the penalty area and deliver clutch saves under pressure helped Mississippi State achieve a perfect record in SEC play. Her contributions extended beyond individual brilliance, as her leadership provided a foundation for the team's historic defensive success.
Rylie Combs, the SEC Defender of the Year, joins Anderson on the First Team after an extraordinary season as the anchor of Mississippi State's backline. Combs played every minute of SEC competition, leading a defense that conceded just two goals in conference play. Her ability to read the game, execute precise tackles, and organize the defensive unit made her an indispensable part of the Bulldogs' success. Combs' efforts ensured that Mississippi State's defense not only frustrated opponents but also set program records for shutouts and goals conceded.
Macey Hodge, the heart of Mississippi State's midfield, was also named to the First Team after a season of remarkable consistency and impact. The SEC Midfielder of the Year and MAC Hermann Trophy semifinalist played a pivotal role in both attack and defense, serving as the engine of the Bulldogs' historic campaign. Hodge's ability to control the tempo of matches, disrupt opposing offenses, and contribute to key scoring opportunities made her one of the most complete players in collegiate soccer this season.
Ally Perry rounded out Mississippi State's First Team selections after an outstanding season in the attacking third. Perry's vision, creativity, and scoring ability were crucial to the Bulldogs' offensive success. Her knack for delivering in high-pressure moments—whether through a perfectly timed assist or a game-winning goal—provided the team with a cutting edge in critical situations. Perry's consistent performances were instrumental in Mississippi State securing its first SEC Regular Season Championship and maintaining its undefeated conference record.
Alexis Gutierrez earned Third Team honors after a season that showcased her technical skill and playmaking ability in the midfield. Gutierrez's creativity and vision were essential to the Bulldogs' ability to transition from defense to attack, often serving as the spark for key scoring opportunities. Her contributions added an additional layer of dynamism to an already potent Mississippi State lineup, ensuring that the Bulldogs could adapt to any challenge posed by their opponents.
Mississippi State's five All-Region honorees reflect the program's remarkable ascent under head coach Nick Zimmerman, who has guided the Bulldogs to unprecedented heights in his tenure as Associate Head Coach before being promoted on December 3. The 2024 season saw Mississippi State claim its first SEC Regular Season Championship with a perfect conference record, achieve national top-three rankings, and break multiple program records, including for wins in a single season and home unbeaten streak.
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