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Columbia, SC (WACH)-A new professional sport has come to the Palmetto state.

The South Carolina Central Cobras is Columbia's first  professional women's soccer team.

The group of 34, players will compete against teams throughout the Southeast in the W-league.

Ashley Swineheart is one of the team's standouts and has been playing professional soccer for the past decade. 

"There's something really special about the first season with any team," said Swineheart.  "I thinking it's really fun to kind of start traditions and it's great to be kind of the new kids."

The dedicated ladies spend countless hours getting prepared.  Many of the players have full time jobs and aren't paid to play instead they play for the love of the game.
 
"I play for the love of the game." said Debbie Smith assistant coach and player.  "I've played since I was little and coming from England I was raised in the game of soccer and It's just awesome being back in Columbia doing what we love and sharing it with the community as well."

The Cobras host their first home game May 20 at Columbia College.
 
For a full schedule and pricing for season tickets click here.