GVSU was the only DII team in the tournament, impressively beating Michigan and Central Michigan to advance. Western Michigan delivered the Lakers their only loss in the lead up. This final match-up was the first time MSU has played GVSU since Hosler moved from the Lakers to the Spartans. With GVSU, Hosler had great success, winning three DII NCAA Championships.

But, Hosler’s old team was no match for his current one. With heavy rotation, Spartans familiar and unknown got a chance to shine and vie for consideration as the 2026 season looms. Between these performances and Hosler’s No. 8-ranked recruiting class, there are high expectations ahead.

Redshirt freshman midfielder Aubrey Ciampa was a bright spot, opening the scoring for the Spartans in the 15th minute, her first goal for MSU. She missed the fall season through injury and will look to make an impact in the coming year.

Junior forward Kennedy Bell doubled MSU’s lead in the 30th minute, continuing her hot form since becoming a Spartan. The reigning Big Ten Forward of the Year looked to be a strong presence the whole series, shifting into a leadership position as she prepares for her second season in green and white.

Ciampa continued to shine as the game went on, providing junior Kayla Briggs with an assist in the 34th minute to make the score 3-0. Redshirt sophomore Shelby Vaughn added a fourth straight after half time, neatly slotting home past the GVSU goalkeeper.

GVSU pulled one back in the 60th minute, sending a shot flying past an unsuspecting backline and freshman goalkeeper Noelle Henning.

Incoming freshman Elise Karas capped the game with her first goal for the Spartans, striking a half-volley into the bottom right corner. Karas also impressed on defense, showcasing her strength and footwork while providing an attacking outlet and forward momentum. She played an important role in the Spartans’ fluid tactics, which overwhelmed opponents, appearing all over the field and looking comfortable at the level. She was one of the best players on the pitch.

Redshirt sophomore defender Julia Belli made her return during the series after missing the fall through injury. Belli’s return, should she stay fit, could prove to be an important boost come the fall season. The defender earned All-Big Ten freshman team honors and started all 22 games in her freshman year. With Maggie Illig having graduated and currently excelling in the Gainsbridge Super League, MSU will need a new leader in the heart of defense. 

Sophomore Addison Baldus similarly impressed in defense, even scoring against Bowling Green in the lead-up to the final. Hosler tested combinations of Baldus, Belli and freshman defender Mackenzie Kruer at centerback. 

Incoming junior Faith George, who transferred from the University of Southern California, also appeared in the series and got on the scoresheet. Her performance gave Hosler and fans early insight into what the Spartans’ scoring options could look like next year.

Across all games, Hosler experimented with tactics, formations and player combinations. The fluidity on the pitch was a strength for the Spartans; Bell, Karas and junior midfielder Renee Watson exemplified the freedom to roam outside their positions. Bell contributed key defensive plays while pressing high and combining with the attack, while Karas frequently switched sides.

Despite the experimentation, MSU completed a perfect spring season. Hosler found the balance between testing chemistry and relying on established stars to secure wins. Spartan fans have a lot to look forward to in the fall.