DePaul University’s women’s soccer program is preparing for the 2026 campaign with a decisive boost to its roster. The arrival of eight freshmen and one transfer signals a strategic push to deepen talent, enhance competitiveness, and reinforce the culture of excellence that defines the program.
Coach Michele O’Brien emphasizes that the new class aligns perfectly with the team’s philosophy of ambition and character. She notes that the blend of seasoned leadership and fresh energy creates a unique opportunity to elevate performance on the field while fostering growth off it.
The incoming group brings a mixture of offensive firepower, defensive reliability, and proven leadership experience. This combination is expected to enrich team dynamics, increase depth, and raise the overall standard of play as the squad looks toward a promising season.
A Fresh Wave of Talent
Sophia Holtzman, a transfer from Florida Gulf Coast University, arrives with a freshman season that saw her net four goals, showcasing her knack for timely scoring. Her experience at the collegiate level adds a layer of maturity to the attacking options.
Savannah Mittelstaedt brings a championship pedigree from Muskego, Wisconsin, where she helped her high school team capture three WIAA Division I state titles. Her winning mindset and defensive acumen are expected to fortify the backline.
Katelyn Haiser from Plainfield, Illinois, contributes a prolific scoring record, having tallied 49 goals and 14 assists during her junior and senior campaigns. Her ability to create and convert chances should add a dynamic dimension to the forward line.
Carolina Capizzi, a Girls Academy National Champion with Galaxy SC, and Riley Vinson, a multi‑honored player from Virginia, round out the midfield and defensive sectors. Both athletes have earned regional and state recognitions that highlight their competitive edge.
Emma Strcic helped FC United achieve an undefeated Girls Academy campaign, going 20‑0‑3 overall, while Emma Gronlund earned Rookie of the Year honors and ECNL All‑Conference First Team status with Chicago Inter. Their consistent performances underscore their readiness for higher competition.
Olivia Hoffmann joins from Cherry Creek High School, a program celebrated for producing top talent in Colorado, and Molly Nelson, a two‑year captain from Cleveland, Ohio, brings leadership experience and defensive grit. Both players are expected to contribute immediately to the squad’s depth.
Coach O’Brien notes that the mix of returning veterans and these promising newcomers creates a balanced environment where healthy competition drives improvement. She believes this blend will not only strengthen the lineup but also cultivate a culture of ambition that could translate into a standout season for DePaul women’s soccer.