Soccer

Mountaineers Add Depth with New Signings

West Virginia University bolsters its women's soccer roster ahead of the 2026 season with two promising recruits.

Mountaineers Add Depth with New Signings

West Virginia University’s women’s soccer program announced the addition of two promising athletes ahead of the 2026 campaign, signaling the coaching staff’s intent to reinforce both ends of the pitch.

Defender Tyler Clyburn, a native of Charlotte, North Carolina, joins the Mountaineers after a standout high school career that blended soccer with state championship performances in track and basketball. At Auburn University he logged 15 appearances, contributed to six clean sheets and earned ECNL Second Team All‑Conference honors as a U16/U17 player, while also being recognized as a Carolinas Soccer Honors participant.

Midfield Vision from Germany

Midfielder Alina Gnädig, hailing from Potsdam, Germany, brings a blend of Bundesliga experience and international exposure. She debuted for the senior women’s side at 17 and has since seen regular minutes in the 2. Bundesliga during the 2025‑26 season, a trajectory that follows her earlier stint with the German U‑16 national team.

Head coach Nikki Izzo‑Brown, who has guided the program to multiple conference titles, highlighted the signings as a reflection of the team’s growing appeal on the recruiting trail. “We’re excited to welcome Tyler and Alina,” she said. “Their versatility and work ethic align perfectly with the standards we set at West Virginia.”

The new arrivals join a roster that already features veteran presence from players such as Brian Moore and Steen Gravgaard, both of whom have contributed to the squad’s defensive solidity and midfield creativity in recent seasons. With the 2026 schedule on the horizon, the Mountaineers look to blend youthful energy with seasoned leadership.

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