Western Carolina University's women's soccer program is entering the 2026 season with a markedly different roster, as head coach Chad Miller and his staff have introduced six new transfers and nine freshmen to the squad.
A Revamped Roster
The incoming transfers hail from a diverse set of institutions, including North Carolina State, Western Kentucky, USC Upstate, San Diego State, Louisiana Tech, and South Alabama, bringing a blend of experience and skill sets that the coaching staff hopes will fill the void left by departing seniors.
Last season the team saw a steep decline in production, retaining only 24 percent of its 2025 scoring output after key players graduated, and nearly 75 percent of on‑field experience was lost, creating a pressing need for fresh talent.
Fresh Faces and Freshman Arrivals
In addition to the transfers, nine freshmen will join the roster, providing depth and a long‑term foundation for the program. Coach Miller emphasized that the blend of veteran transfers and new blood is designed to restore competitiveness while building for future seasons.
Among the newcomers, Mackenzie Howard, a sophomore midfielder from Athens, Tennessee, previously played for Western Kentucky, while Caroline Simpkins, a redshirt sophomore forward from Raleigh, North Carolina, arrives from USC Upstate. Both are expected to contribute immediately in attacking roles.
Eva Vespa, a junior forward from St. Leonard, Quebec, Canada, comes after stints at San Diego State and Vanier College, adding experience and physical presence up front. Defender Alexe Drolet, a sophomore from Quebec City, Quebec, joins from Louisiana Tech, and fellow back‑line player Alexandra Grammenopoulos, a redshirt sophomore from Brooklin, Ontario, Canada, transfers in from South Alabama.
Graduate student midfielder Eliza Rich, originally from Huntersville, North Carolina, rounds out the midfield after a career at NC State, bringing leadership and tactical versatility.
Looking Ahead
With a roster that blends seasoned transfers, impactful freshmen, and returning veterans, the Catamounts hope to rebound from a challenging previous season. The coaching staff believes the new additions will not only restore scoring potency but also instill a competitive culture that can sustain success beyond the 2026 campaign.