Overview of the 2025 Roster
This year, the team’s roster boasts a strong youthful foundation, evidenced by the significant contributions from underclassmen in 2024. Key statistics reveal that these players accounted for 42.8% of the total goals, 41.7% of the assists, and were instrumental in every minute played by the goalkeepers. Notably, the defensive lineup also featured many younger talents, including WCC All-Freshman defender Ella Callanan.
Key Returning Players
Several standout players are set to return, further solidifying the team’s competitive edge. Junior midfielder Mikayla Abrenica, the leading scorer for the 2024 season, will continue to be a pivotal player for the squad. Other returning leaders include junior goalkeeper Elise Medrano, who has logged significant minutes, and junior defender Kate Sealy. Senior midfielders Kylie Smith and forward Josefine Schlichting will take on leadership roles as team captains in 2025.
New Additions to the Lineup
The lineup has also been enhanced with the arrival of experienced players and promising newcomers. Graduate transfer Abigail Colton, returning to her San Diego roots after a successful tenure at Wake Forest, played a crucial role in the Demon Deacons’ run to the National Championship, starting in all 24 matches last season as a center midfielder. In addition, senior Emma Gonzalez joins the team after contributing significantly to UC Riverside’s defense over three years, bringing international experience from her time with the Puerto Rico Women’s National Team.
Freshman Talent
Among the incoming freshmen, forward Amanda Anders stands out for her versatility and scoring prowess. A highly regarded recruit from San Marcos, California, Anders has a familial connection to the team, as her mother, Sherice Bartling, was a former Torero standout. Additionally, the defensive lineup is strengthened by Paige Bickley, while Gianna Melton, Makenna Liebman, and Hailey Vermilyea add depth on the wings and in midfield, promising to bring energy and skill to the squad.
This combination of returning talent and new players suggests a bright future for the team’s performance in the upcoming season.
