Randy Waldrum disagrees with Pitt WSOC newest ranking

Pitt women’s soccer head coach Randy Waldrum did not agree with the newest United Soccer Coaches Rankings that came out on Tuesday.

The Panthers dropped from No. 14 to start the season to No. 21 in the ranking. This is despite the fact that the Panthers started the season 2-0 with wins over the Buffalo Bulls on the road last Thursday, Aug. 17 and a 4-1 win over the Drexel Dragons in their home opener on Sunday.

Buffalo faced Pitt in the First Round of the NCAA Tournament last season and Drexel had a solid 2022, winning 11 games. Waldrum put out his frustrations with the recent ranking under the NCAA Soccer Twitter account.

Hard to believe you win 2 games out of 2 and drop 7 places..wow!

— Randy Waldrum (@CoachWaldrum) August 22, 2023

Known for standing up for himself and his team, Waldrum made a name for himself on the international stage as manager of Nigeria at the Women’s World Cup this summer.

He spoke with Pittsburgh Soccer Now’s John Krysinsky about his displacement with the Nigeria Football Federation, which included late payments, poor training conditions and more for his team.

Waldrum and the Super Falcons had a successful World Cup, defeating the hosts Australia in the Group Stage and forcing England to penalties in the Round of 16. His support for his players off the pitch created a close bond and trust between the squad, while his great tactics propelled the Super Falcons stars to play their best in front of millions.

Showing no fear in taking on the NFF for better working conditions, it is no surprise to see Waldrum take on college rankings from his counterparts across the United States.

Pitt faces off against Kent State this Thursday for their second road game of the season. They also come back home next Sunday, Aug. 27 at 1 p.m. to take on in-state Bucknell at Ambrose Urbanic Field.