CINCINNATI - The University of Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky University women's soccer programs are set to face off on Monday, Aug. 22, at Nippert Stadium in a match that will serve as the birth of the Riverboat Rivalry among the two squads. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. and admission is complimentary for all fans.

"The Riverboat Rivalry brings two Greater Cincinnati women's college soccer programs together to showcase programs that are both on the rise," said NKU head coach Bob Sheehan. "We always want to place our players in competitive and intense environments. We believe that this will be a great experience for both programs, for players from both teams and for the outstanding soccer fans in the Greater Cincinnati area."
 
"I think anytime you are talking about a local derby, it always brings excitement to the area," UC head coach Neil Stafford said. "With all the excitement surrounding FC Cincinnati, and even the youth soccer and how successful it has been in this area, we want to create even more excitement and creating this Riverboat Rivalry will fan those flames. This will be our first contest against NKU, which will be exciting. We have a lot of respect for Bob, his staff and their players, so I think it will be a great occasion for the area overall and am looking forward to it."
 
The match between the Bearcats and Norse will be the first between the two women's programs and the first collegiate match played inside Nippert Stadium following a near full-season slate played by USL side FC Cincinnati. All three organizations will have a presence at the match, including a ceremonial gift exchanged between UC, NKU and FCC prior to the opening whistle.
 
Along with the match, fans are invited to be a part of the action before, during and after the match. Prior to the opening kick, members of the UC men's soccer program and players for FC Cincinnati will be on Shakely Lawn to interact with fans while inflatables and other games will be available as well. Shortly before the opening kick, players from FCC will greet fans and sign autographs on the East Concourse.
 
Throughout the match, fans can enjoy $1 hot dogs and $1 beverages. At halftime, a crossbar challenge will be held (contestants to be announced). Following the match and a 15-minute cooling period for the players, both teams will hold an autograph session on the East Concourse.