Big Dawg Energy: A Tradition in Mississippi State Soccer
STARKVILLE – Assistant soccer coach Kat Stratton has upheld a unique tradition during her six seasons at Mississippi State: “Big Dawg Energy.”
After head coach Kevin O’Brien secured his first win this season, Stratton urged him to recognize a player exemplifying the team’s core values.
The D.A.W.G.S. Mentality
Stratton describes the team’s philosophy through a framework called the D.A.W.G.S. Mentality—each letter stands for a key principle.
What distinguishes the Big Dawg Energy award is its focus beyond statistics. It honors players who significantly impact the game, regardless of whether they score goals.
Emphasizing Grit and Character
“It’s not just about scoring or making saves,” Stratton explained. “It’s really about grit and character built through this program.” This mentality helps anchor the team through the intense competition of the SEC.
Stratton encourages players to find positives, even in losses, fostering resilience: “You can find positives within the entire thing… just because we lose doesn’t mean there weren’t good performances.”
Recent Success and Team Spirit
While Mississippi State’s soccer team has enjoyed a promising start with a 6-0-0 record in 2026, challenges do arise. After a victory against Oklahoma State, Chiara Tappe received the award despite not being a goal scorer; her all-around effort and tenacity in the game were pivotal.
The decision for the award is made collectively by the coaching staff, but the real celebration unfolds when the team’s members gather to honor the recipient. “They kind of expect who it is, but they love to celebrate them,” Stratton shared.
Unity in Achievement
On special occasions, such as the win against Alcorn State, the award has been shared among multiple players or even given to the entire team, showcasing collective effort.
“They live their lives according to that standard,” Stratton concluded, emphasizing the team’s commitment to the Bulldog mentality and the positive atmosphere that defines their journey.
