Introducing College Soccer Central with John Krysinsky: Women’s season opening week with Robert Morris’ Michelle Rick and Ava Trethewey

College soccer is filled with world-class athletic talent, compelling storylines, and high-stakes conference battles—yet traditional media coverage frequently ignores the college game until NCAA Tournament’s selection Sunday — and even then — coverage can be limited.

That void is the driving motivation behind our newest weekly feature: College Soccer Central with John Krysinsky.

Drawing on background as a long-time soccer journalist across numerous outlets and ventures including the past eight years with Pittsburgh Soccer Now, combined with his direct experience on the touchline as former head coach at Point Park University, this show will serve as a dedicated platform for college soccer, posted weekly on Pittsburgh Soccer Now’s YouTube Channel and simulcast on Sounding Off on Soccer Podcast.

Every week, we’ll dive deep into tactical trends, program updates, and exclusive interviews with Division I coaches and players from across our region—expanding seamlessly to national coverage and NCAA Tournament breakdowns as the postseason approaches.

To kick off Episode 1 of College Soccer Central, we turn our attention to Moon Township to check in on the Robert Morris University Women’s Soccer program as they prepare for their third season under Head Coach Michelle Rick.

Building Stability in Moon Township

When Michelle Rick took over the RMU program prior to the 2024 season, she immediately brought structure and tournament consistency, guiding the Colonials into back-to-back Horizon League postseason runs.

Entering her third year, Coach Rick has established a clear tactical identity built on high-tempo pressing, defensive organization, and strong locker room culture.

Trethewey’s Breakthrough

A critical piece of that RMU blueprint is senior forward Ava Trethewey. Coming off an elite campaign where she led the Colonials in scoring and earned All-Horizon League honors, Trethewey has transformed into one of the most dangerous attacking outlets in the conference.

Trethewey spent her summer competing in the USL W League with Brevard Riptide SC, sharpening her physical durability and clinical finishing inside the 18-yard box.

Watch / Listen to Episode 1

Check out the full inaugural episode of College Soccer Central on YouTube below, or listen on Transistor and your favorite podcast platforms.

Stay tuned to Pittsburgh Soccer Now every week as College Soccer Central brings you program previews, player spotlights, and coach Q&As from around Division I college soccer.

Pittsburgh Soccer Now