News Summary

The University at Albany women’s soccer team is poised for an impressive 2025 season with the addition of six standout freshmen from various states. Tamia Nelson, Sara Tyler, Lauren Villasin, Angie McLoughlin, Julia DiRaddo, and Anna Nassivera bring significant talent and accolades to the team. From state championships to individual honors, these new players are eager to contribute to the team’s success and embrace the supportive environment of UAlbany soccer as they prepare for a thrilling upcoming season.

Exciting New Additions for UAlbany Women’s Soccer

Albany, NY – The University at Albany women’s soccer team is gearing up for an amazing 2025 season, and they’ve just announced the arrival of six standout freshmen. These enthusiastic young athletes hail from four different states: New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. Let’s take a closer look at these exciting new players!

Talented Freshmen to Watch

First up, we have Tamia Nelson from Stafford, Virginia. Standing tall at 5 feet 8 inches, this talented forward is coming off a fantastic stint with the Fairfax VA Union ECNL, where she helped her team clinch the Mid-Atlantic League Championship in 2021-2022. During her high school career, Tamia scored an impressive total of 41 goals and provided 26 assists! As a captain for three years, she’s earned a whole slew of accolades, including three First-Team All-District honors from 2023 to 2025. Clearly, she’s a player to keep an eye on!

Next, we have Sara Tyler from Newtown, Pennsylvania, a 5-foot-9 midfielder who has a passion for winning. Competing with the Philadelphia Ukrainian Nationals ECNL, she bagged back-to-back Pennsylvania State Championships in 2017 and 2018. Sara’s leadership skills shone through as she took on the role of varsity captain in her senior year, earning herself a coveted spot on the Suburban One League First Team for 2023-2025. With her experience and determination, she will undoubtedly add value to the UAlbany roster.

Slick Skills and Athletic Prowess

We can’t forget about Lauren Villasin from West Orange, New Jersey! This 5-foot-7 defender/midfielder has proven to be a goal-scoring machine with 34 goals and 15 assists during her high school days playing for Cedar Stars Academy – Bergen GA. Named to the All-Group 4 First Team in 2024, Lauren has even represented the Philippines at the youth national team level. Talk about talent!

Angie McLoughlin also joins the squad from Montclair, New Jersey. Standing 5 feet 5 inches tall, this forward/midfielder has shown her skills with Match Fit Academy ECNL, where she scored 15 goals and provided 8 assists. Her accolades include First Team All-County in 2025 and the Player’s Player of the Year award. She’s got the skills and the charm to make a strong impact on the field!

Don’t overlook Julia DiRaddo, hailing from Clifton Park, New York. This 5-foot-4 forward has made a name for herself, playing club soccer for Albany Alleycats and earning All-State as well as multiple First Team All-Section honors. But that’s not all! Julia has also excelled in track, contributing to her team’s success in the 4×100 relay. A versatile athlete, she’s sure to bring some speed and agility to the team.

Defensive Strength in the Goal

Last but certainly not least, we have Anna Nassivera from East Greenbush, New York, who stands tall at 5 feet 8 inches. This goalkeeper, also from Albany Alleycats, has received ECNL-RL All-Region honors in 2024. She holds impressive school records for shutouts in a single season (17) and career shutouts (44). With her skills between the posts, Anna will definitely be a wall to reckon with!

Welcoming Atmosphere and Growth Opportunities

All of these exciting newcomers expressed their enthusiasm about joining the UAlbany family. They’ve felt the welcoming atmosphere, competitive environment, and the opportunities for personal and athletic growth that await them. As they prepare to hit the field, it’s clear that the future of UAlbany women’s soccer is bright, and fans can look forward to an exhilarating season ahead!

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