Sporting JAX Women Take the Win in Season Opener

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Special to Jax Sports News

FORT LAUDERDALE (www.thefloridasportswire.com) - The Sporting JAX women’s team made a season-opener statement against Fort Lauderdale United FC with a 1-0 win, taking the lead in the 89th minute after a scoreless first half.

The late game-winning goal came from Baylee DeSmit, one of Sporting JAX’ stars in their inaugural season.

“It feels great,” said DeSmit. “I hope it’s just the beginning, but obviously it feels great to get that win under our belt to start off, and be able to provide for the team like that.”

DeSmit had a strong start to her professional career in the 2025/26 season, where she made 25 appearances with 12 goals and two assists. Her 12 goals brought her even with teammate Ashlyn Puerta, the 2025/26 Player of the Year recipient, for the most goals on the team.

The women will head back to Hodges Stadium for their home opener against another familiar in-state rival, Tampa Bay Sun FC. 

Sporting JAX has gone 7-0-2 against their Sunshine State rivals, with tonight’s win building off of last year's dominant six wins and two draws.

“It’s all about consistency,” said Stacey Balaam, Head Coach and 2025/26 Coach of the Year recipient. “It’s hard to win on the road for your first game, so we did a good job of grinding out a result that wasn’t easy.”

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