In an exciting development for women’s soccer in Toledo, student-athletes Carys Bourbeau and Aly Peckham from the University of Toledo are set to represent the Toledo Villa FC in its inaugural season within the USL-W league. This semi-professional club marks a significant milestone as it brings the highest level of women’s soccer to the city.
Bourbeau and Peckham will compete against formidable opponents such as Kalamazoo FC, Midwest United FC, Detroit City FC, AFC Ann Arbor, and Union Macomb FC. All home matches for Toledo Villa FC will take place at Paul Hotmer Field, a venue closely associated with the University of Toledo women’s soccer program since 2019.
“We are very excited that both Carys and Aly will be representing the Toledo community and Rocket Nation this summer playing for Toledo Villa,” stated Head Coach Mark Batman. “It is a great opportunity for both of them, and we are thrilled they get a chance to compete in all of their home games on their collegiate home field. We hope that their playing locally, in front of the Toledo community, will only enhance our fan base in the fall and fill Paul Hotmer Field for all of our home games in 2025.”
Carys Bourbeau, an incoming junior midfielder, has already made a mark with the Rockets, participating in 34 matches during her tenure. Last season, she was instrumental in defense, contributing to a record-setting performance by the team, which allowed just 16 goals throughout the season.
Aly Peckham, who is entering as a freshman in the 2025 season, comes highly regarded following a stellar high school career at Notre Dame Academy. She was named a United Soccer Coaches’ All-American in her senior year and achieved multiple accolades throughout her high school years, including scoring 20 goals and providing 10 assists in her final season.
The schedule for Toledo Villa FC includes several key matches, with home games set for May 18, May 31, June 11, June 18, and June 25. Notably, the May 31 match will feature an opening ceremony attended by local dignitaries, including Vice President and Director of Athletics Bryan B. Blair, Toledo Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz, and Lucas County commissioners.
Bourbeau, Peckham, and the rest of the Rocket soccer team will kick off their upcoming collegiate season on August 14 at Eastern Kentucky. Toledo Villa FC, established in 2017, previously competed in the USL League Two Great Lakes Division for men’s soccer and now expands its mission to women’s soccer with this new venture.
