Where to Watch Tennessee Volunteers vs North Carolina Tar Heels Women’s Soccer and Who’s Commentating

For fans eager to catch the 2025 NCAA Non-Conference women’s soccer clash between the Tennessee Volunteers and North Carolina Tar Heels, the game will take place on 14 August 2025, kicking off at 00:05 UK time. Coverage will be available primarily on the ESPN App and the SEC Network in the United States, featuring commentary by Mike Watts with co-commentary from Jill Loyden.

Although this game is a US-broadcast event, British fans interested in NCAA women’s soccer often follow via streaming platforms and may use the ESPN App to access the coverage internationally. While UK terrestrial broadcasters like BBC and ITV typically do not air NCAA soccer, digital access through official apps provides the best viewing experience. The SEC Network is part of ESPN’s family of channels focusing on Southeastern Conference sports, making it the natural home for Tennessee Volunteers’ games. Both ESPN’s platform and the SEC Network will air the match live, ensuring comprehensive coverage with expert commentary.

The Commentators: Mike Watts and Jill Loyden

Mike Watts is a respected voice in American soccer broadcasting. Known for his clear and engaging style, Watts brings years of experience covering collegiate and professional soccer. His work includes play-by-play commentary that combines detailed tactical insights with enthusiastic delivery, making him a standout presence on ESPN’s soccer coverage.

Jill Loyden, the co-commentator, is a former professional goalkeeper with significant playing experience in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL). Her background includes playing for teams such as Sky Blue FC and Portland Thorns FC as well as earning caps for the United States national team. Loyden’s transition from player to pundit has been marked by insightful analysis, especially relating to defensive aspects and goalkeeper perspectives, adding valuable depth to the commentary team.

Match Background and Teams

This fixture marks an important season opener for the 2025 campaign as the top-ranked North Carolina Tar Heels women's soccer team begins their title defence on the road at Tennessee's Regal Soccer Stadium in Knoxville. The Tar Heels are widely regarded as a dominant force in collegiate women’s soccer, with multiple NCAA championships to their name. Tennessee Volunteers, meanwhile, are respected competitors in the SEC and have historically provided stiff opposition at home.

The match is expected to be competitive, with the Tar Heels recently recording commanding wins such as a 7-0 victory over Tennessee last season, reflecting their status as the top team in women’s college soccer[2][3][4]. Players to watch include Tar Heels' midfielders and forwards like Olivia Thomas and Kate Faasse, as well as impactful Tennessee players who aim to challenge the visiting champions.

Additional Information and Viewing Tips

UK viewers wanting to watch this significant match can access the ESPN App via subscription or other streaming services offering ESPN channels. The game will not be on traditional British TV channels like BBC, ITV, or Sky Sports, which generally do not cover NCAA women's soccer extensively.

For more on the teams and the competition, official NCAA women's soccer pages and team websites offer in-depth previews and player profiles. Fans can also follow live updates and statistics through reliable sports sites such as 247Sports and ESPN Soccer Match Centre. Additionally, the Official North Carolina Tar Heels Website provides previews and live stat feeds.