Rising Stars of the 2026 Season
The Cincinnati Enquirer has unveiled its top 25 girls' high school soccer players for the Ohio and Kentucky area, a preseason snapshot that sets the stage for the 2026 campaign. The rankings celebrate not only individual brilliance but also the depth of talent that will shape high school soccer across the region.
Among the honorees, Morgan McDonald of Holy Cross emerges as a leading scorer who earned Ninth Region first‑team honors and secured a collegiate commitment. Her offensive output has already drawn attention from recruiters eager to see her develop at the next level.
Averie Layman from Batavia adds another layer of excitement, having been named American Player of the Year and recognized as Division III all‑state in 2025. Her blend of skill and sportsmanship positions her as a benchmark for future prospects.
Ella Cook of Little Miami rounds out the defensive excellence with Defensive Player of the Year honors, guiding her squad to an Eastern Cincinnati Conference championship. Her leadership at the back has been credited with tightening the team's overall performance.
Other standout athletes include Aubrey Blakely from Summit Country Day, a key figure in the school's state championship run, and Lilah Beers of Madeira, who helped her team capture the Division V title. Both players have been lauded for their clutch performances in high‑stakes matches.
Kendall Hanlon from Western Brown topped the SBAAC scoring charts and earned all‑district recognition, while Addy Zawaly of Mariemont collected All‑American status and was named CHL Co‑Player of the Year, committing to the University of Wisconsin. Their achievements underscore a competitive landscape where local talent is increasingly eyeing national collegiate pathways.
The list also reflects the growing influence of regional powerhouses such as Oak Hills, where Taylor Spille led her team in both goals and assists, earning all‑league and all‑district accolades. Meanwhile, Josie Hyden of Cincinnati Country Day secured a spot on the All‑Central Region and All‑Ohio teams, pledging to Valparaiso University.
Beyond individual honors, the rankings highlight the collective success of schools across the Cincinnati metropolitan area and the broader Kentucky border. With state championships already in the books for several programs, the momentum carries forward into a promising 2026 season that promises heightened competition and increased visibility for girls' soccer.