HOUGHTON, N.Y. – Despite a disappointing loss in the NCCAA Midwest Region semifinals, Houghton women's soccer will still have a chance to defend their national title after receiving an at-large bid to the NCCAA National Tournament. The event is set for November 28 - December 3 in Kissimmee, Fla.

This will mark the 14^th consecutive national tournament (NAIA and NCCAA) that the team has appeared in.

The Highlanders (10-7-3) have received the No. 8 seed and will begin pool play against No. 2 Campbellsville University on Monday, Nov. 28 at 3:30 p.m. Their second round of pool play is set for Tuesday, Nov. 29 at 3:30 p.m. against the No. 5 seed Central Christian College of Kansas.

Head Coach David Lewis offered some insight about the upcoming tournament...

What are your thoughts on getting an at-large bid and how do you feel about your seeding for Nationals?
We were a bit surprised to receive an at-large bid. Although we have a competitive team, our Longo points were low this year compared to other years – so we didn't think we'd be in consideration.

What are you thoughts about your matchups?
It will be difficult playing back-to-back games against quality opponents, but we have intentionally played a couple back-to-back games already this season and it should prepare us.

Your thoughts on how your team is playing heading into this tournament?
The players are excited to play in Florida. They have been training quite well during the post-season and are achieving one of our team objectives for the season – to improve and to increasingly play quality soccer with quality effort.

More details about the event can be found at the tournament web page.

The contests will be streamed with live video for those who wish to follow along from home. Fans can purchase individual games or buy a pass for the entire tournament.