Jessica Hotard portrait

Her standout performances began early in the season. She scored a goal in a 4-2 victory over Copiah-Lincoln, the team’s seventh-straight win, and followed that with another goal in a 4-1 triumph over rival Pearl River. Gulf Coast went on to clinch the MACJC South championship with a dominant 5-0 victory over Copiah-Lincoln, where Hotard netted two more goals. The Bulldogs completed a perfect 6-0 record in division play, securing the school’s second South title.

In the MACJC/NJCAA Region 23 Tournament, Hotard continued her excellent form, scoring in a 3-0 win over East Mississippi in the semifinals. Though Gulf Coast fell 2-1 to Hinds in overtime during the championship game, Hotard’s contributions throughout the season were undeniable. The Bulldogs finished with an impressive 13-2 record, outscoring their opponents 64-13 during a 13-game winning streak.

Hotard ended the season with 13 goals, earning her the team’s Most Valuable Player award. She was also named to the All-MACJC and All-NJCAA Region 23 teams becoming the first player in Gulf Coast history to be named an NJCAA All-American, receiving honorable mention recognition for her outstanding season.