Indiana Field Hockey announced the addition of Gabriela Garayo Aranceta to its 2026 recruiting class, a move confirmed by head coach Kayla Bashore on Tuesday.
A native of Santander, Spain, Garayo Aranceta joins after a standout youth career that includes two championships with her club and podium finishes in the Spanish Youth Championship, where her side captured first and third places.
Representing the Spanish U18 national team, she contributed to a first‑place finish and a runner‑up result in the Six Nations Tournament, while also securing third place in the U18 Regional Championship and second in the U16 Regional Championship.
Off the field, the midfielder is the daughter of Manuel and Rocío and has a sister named Ángela, and she remains undecided on her academic major as she prepares for college life.
Garayo Aranceta cited the Hoosiers’ vibrant team culture and the university’s strong academic reputation as the primary reasons for her choice, emphasizing how the environment aligns with her personal and athletic goals.
A Global Outlook for the Hoosiers
Her arrival adds an international dimension to the squad, enriching the team’s tactical diversity while underscoring Indiana’s growing reach in global recruiting.
Coach Bashore highlighted the player’s blend of technical skill and competitive experience, noting that Garayo Aranceta will bring a fresh perspective and a winning mentality to the program.