News Summary

Rutgers women’s soccer welcomes eight talented freshmen to the 2025 class, aiming to enhance their performance following a successful 2024 season. This dynamic group includes players excelling in key positions such as forwards, midfielders, defenders, and a goalkeeper. With experience from high school and club soccer, these newcomers are set to make a significant impact as the Scarlet Knights prepare for the upcoming NCAA tournament, continuing their quest to build on their recent achievements.

Rutgers Women’s Soccer Welcomes a Dynamic Freshman Class!

Exciting news for soccer fans in New Brunswick, as Rutgers women’s soccer head coach Mike O’Neill has announced the signing of eight promising freshmen to join the 2025 class. With a passion for the game and impressive records, these new additions aim to elevate the Scarlet Knights’ performance in upcoming seasons.

Introducing the Fresh Faces

Each of the eight freshmen brings with them a wealth of experience from high school and club soccer. Many have also participated in academies tied to professional women’s soccer teams within the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). This incoming class boasts players for every crucial position, including forwards, midfielders, defenders, and even a goalkeeper. Notably, most players primarily excel in midfield and defense, promising a well-rounded and strong team dynamic.

Spotlight on the Freshmen

  • Kennedi Cotter (Forward/Midfield): A phenomenal talent, Cotter scored eight goals and provided four assists for Paisley Athletic FC in the USL W League during the 2024 season. She joined the first team at just 15 and started every game by 16. In high school, she tallied 18 goals and nine assists, earning numerous accolades. Kennedi plans to major in business while dreaming of a career either as a professional soccer player or a general manager in sports.
  • Lindsey Hailey (Defender): As a captain for the NC Courage ECNL Academy, Hailey brings not only leadership skills but also sportsmanship, winning seven awards and leading her team to the 2024 USL W League Championship. Academically, she’s a stand-out Honor Roll student, aiming to major in exercise science with hopes of entering strength and conditioning.
  • Julia Joseph (Defender/Midfielder): A key player for Lake Oswego High School, Joseph captained her team while leading them to a league championship. With a strong family history in sports, including a father who played in the 1996 Olympics, Julia aspires to pursue a professional career on the field.
  • Jayme Malanda (Defender/Midfielder): In her first three seasons, Malanda scored an impressive 28 goals for Middletown North High School. She has earned MVP honors, has been a part of ECNL conference title-winning teams, and has a clear career path in physical therapy, as she plans to major in exercise science.
  • Sarah Martinez (Midfielder): Martinez is no stranger to high-level competition, having participated in U.S. Youth National Team camps. She excelled as the 2024 ECNL Mid-Atlantic Player of the Year while captaining her U-17 team. She values Rutgers’ academic reputation and culture and is excited to become part of the community.
  • Gaby Sanchez (Midfielder): Sanchez has scored 14 goals in high school and played a crucial role in her team’s multiple championships. Recognized as First Team All-County, she plans to continue her education in exercise science with an aim to work in physical therapy.
  • Sophia Stiles (Defender): Known for her outstanding play at Jesuit High School, Stiles led her team to the Oregon state championship game and earned All-State honors. With aspirations to become an elementary school teacher, she plans to major in education.
  • Lauren Swafford (Goalkeeper): Bringing a wealth of experience, Swafford has saved over 375 shots during her high school career and has received numerous All-Conference and state honors. She is committed to maintaining high academic standards while majoring in business with a focus on leadership and management.

The Road Ahead

The arrival of these eight newcomers comes at a pivotal time for Rutgers women’s soccer as they aim to build on their successful 2024 season, during which they boasted an impressive 11-5-5 record. Having reached the Big Ten Championship Game, the Scarlet Knights are gearing up to make a stronger impact in the NCAA tournament next year. While some key players have graduated, they retain star goalkeeper Olivia Bodmer and their leading goal-scorer, Ashley Baran. With such a talented recruiting class stepping in, the future looks bright for Rutgers women’s soccer!

As the fresh faces get ready to hit the field, fans can look forward to an exciting season ahead filled with talent, determination, and unforgettable moments.

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