2021 NSIC Women's Soccer Preseason Coaches' Poll

8/16/2021 10:00:00 AM

MINNESOTA STATE PICKED IN NSIC WOMEN'S SOCCER PRESEASON POLL

BURNSVILLE, Minn. – The four-time defending NSIC Tournament Champions of Minnesota State University, Mankato were picked to win the NSIC in the preseason coaches’ poll. This marks the ninth time since re-joining the NSIC in 2008 that the Mavericks have been picked to win the league.

Minnesota State received nine first place votes and tallied 218 points, ranking them ahead of Augustana (202), which received three first place votes. The defending NSIC Regular Season Champions (2019) of Concordia-St. Paul came in third with 200 points and the other four first place votes. Bemidji State was fourth with 194 points while St. Cloud State was fifth with 165 points.

The 2021 NSIC Soccer Regular Season Champion will be determined by a 15-match league schedule, with a win earning a team three points and a tie one point.

The 2021 NSIC Soccer season will see its first action on Thursday, September 2 with NSIC action beginning on Friday, September 17.

The NSIC Tournament is scheduled for November 10, 12, 14. The top four seeds shall host for the first round, followed by the semifinal and championship rounds at the campus of the highest remaining seed.

PRESEASON PLAYERS OF THE YEAR

#4 Jenny Vetter (F, 5-3, Jr., Mankato, Minn. / East HS) - Minnesota State University, Mankato

Named the D2CCA Central Region Player of the Year in 2019 and the NSIC Offensive Player of the Year
Claimed All-American First Team honors from CoSIDA and United Soccer Coaches during the 2019 season, to go along with D2CCA Second Team honors
Led the team in scoring with 20 goals and seven assists for a total of 47 points
Scored two goals ins five games during the 2019 season
Is just one of two Mavericks in program history to score at least 20 goals in a season joining Amber Dusosky who did so twice (28 goals in 2000 & 30 goals in 2002)

Jenny is best known for her phenomenal pace, which is without question very impressive, but I think what puts her above and beyond and makes her so extremely special is her relentless work rate. She is one of the most driven, determined competitors I’ve ever coached.

Head Coach Brian Bahl

#9 Megan Dahl (CB, 5-8, Sr., Rosemount, Minn. / Rosemount HS) - Bemidji State University

Two-time All-NSIC performer (3rd team 2019; 2nd team 2018)
Racked up 1,684 minutes played in 2019, second on the team
Key member of a BSU defensive unit that allowed just eight goals in 2019 in NSIC play
Help BSU to seven shutouts in 2019
In 41 career matches, has a goal and two assists from her backline position
Has contributed to 22 shutouts and has surrendered just 17 goals since she stepped on campus
Helped BSU to a regular-season conference championship and NCAA Tournament appearance

Megan is as good a center back as you will find. She can win balls out of the air, settle them down softly with her feet and begin the attack, organize a back line and emergency tackle when needed. She never leaves a field without getting her jersey dirty and acquiring a few bruises. She's a throw back.

Head Coach Jim Stone

SEASON PREVIEWS & PLAYERS TO WATCH

AUGUSTANA UNIVERSITY

Spanning nearly two years since its last official game, the Augustana women’s soccer team enters 2021 with 14 individuals that stepped foot on the pitch during the 2019 season and welcomes 21 newcomers to the squad over two recruiting classes. Amongst the 14 returners, Brandon Barkus’ squad has five returning starters and also returns four of the top six point scorers from the 2019 season. Among those four is 2019 Second Team All-NSIC selection Morgan Keirstead along with Honorable Mentions Sylvia Fehr and Alexis Legg.
Josie Arduser and Fehr are the top returning point scorers with 14 points each in 2019. Fehr’s came from five goals and four assists while Arduser tallied three goals and eight assists. Legg has recorded 16 goals over her two seasons played. Keirstead totaled 11 points in 2019 with five goals and an assist. Other key returners include Bailey Parsons and Savannah Ellender who each started in 2019.
Augustana enters the 2021 season with a pair of goalkeepers vying for the starting role in senior Meghan Kuntz and sophomore Jillian Barkus. Kuntz played five games in the 2019 season making 11 saves. Barkus took a redshirt during that 2019 season and is a two-time South Dakota All-State performer in her prep career.
The Vikings open the much-awaited 2021 season on Sept. 3 at Fort Hays State before finishing off a three-game opening road trip at Washburn (Sept. 5) and Nebraska Kearney (Sept. 12). The home opener doubles as the conference opener as AU hosts Concordia-St. Paul on Sept. 17.

I am extremely excited about our returning leadership and experience! This group has been through a lot and has truly gotten better because of it! If we make any type of run it will be because of our teams depth in our technical ability, intelligence, personality and speed. I believe this will be a remarkable year for this team!

Head Coach Brandon Barkus

#36 Alexis Legg (F, 5-6, Sr., Ankeny, Minn. / Ankeny HS)

2018 NSIC Freshman of the Year
Earned an Honorable Mention to All-NSIC teams in 2019 and was a Third Team honoree in 2018
Has totaled 2,202 minutes on the pitch, accumulating 35 points from 16 goals scored and three assists
In two years of playing action, has netted six game-winning goals

I am very excited about Alexis! After she had a phenomenal first year, she was awarded NSIC Freshman of the year, I believe she is due to have another break out season. She looks strong, poised and determined to be better then she ever has. I think Alexis is going to crush it this season!

Head Coach Brandon Barkus

#14 Bailey Parsons (D, 5-3, Sr., Omaha, Neb. / Burke HS)

A veteran of 33 games, has played a total of 1,615 minutes on the pitch
Scored first career goal in Vikings’ win over Concordia-St. Paul in the 2019 season
The goal proved to be the game-winner against the then undefeated Golden Bears
Played on a defensive core that totaled 11 shutouts in the 2019 season
Is a three-time member of the NSIC All-Academic Team

Bailey is tremendous! Her growth, maturity and leadership is second to none. She chose to stick around Sioux Falls this summer working at LifeScape, which has become a huge passion of hers. She has been hitting the weight room, cycling, running and interval training religiously, starting each day at 6am! I don't know if I've seen a more committed athlete come through our program!

Head Coach Brandon Barkus

BEMIDJI STATE UNIVERSITY

The Bemidji State soccer team returns to the pitch in 2021 after making two NCAA Tournament appearances and earning its first Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference regular-season title in its last three full seasons. The Beavers assembled a perfect 3-0 2021 spring season after losing the fall campaign due to COVID-19 to build upon a 12-6-1 record and 11-3-1 league record in 2019. In his 20th season, Head Coach Jim Stone returns 22 players, while adding 10 newcomers. The roster is highlighted by two-time All-NSIC and all-region selection Allyson Smith, who already ranks as one of the Beavers’ career leaders in goals (22), game-winning goals (7) and assists (18). She returns after missing the 2019 season following a 2018 season during which she netted 27 points (10g-7a) in 17 matches. She is joined by fellow senor Sara Wendt who has contributed 14 goals and nine game-winners over the Beavers’ last 20 matches. Defensively, Megan Dahl is the anchor of a unit that has been nothing short of stingy. During the COVID-19-shortened 2021 spring season, BSU allowed just one goal and collected a pair of shutouts in three matches. BSU surrendered just eight goals during the 15-game 2019 NSIC schedule, or .517 goals per NSIC game, to rank second in the league, while its .680 overall goals against average placed it among the top 50 teams in the nation. She also contributed to a back line that set BSU single-season records while leading the NSIC for goals allowed (11), goals allowed average (0.51) and shutouts (13).

I think all 4 lines can be very good for us this year (forwards, mids, defenders, GKs). We have more depth and tough decisions for the coaching staff than we ever have had. Our leadership is strong and character based and I think our group is hungry to compete in the right way.

Head Coach Jim Stone

#15 Ally Smith (F, 5-7, Sr., Brainerd, Minn. / Brainerd HS)

A two-time All-NSIC selection and all-region pick is one of BSU’s top scoring individuals of all time
Has piled up 20 goals and 18 assists in 39 matches dating back to 2017
Already ranks among the Beavers’ top-10 in goal and assist scoring, while tied for sixth all time in game-winning goals
Of her 20 goals, seven have stood and game-winning goals, which places her tied for sixth in BSU soccer history
She missed the entire 2019 season as a medical red-shirt but returned in the spring of 2021 to sit second on the team with four points in BSU’s three official matches, while equaling the team’s lead with two helpers
In addition, she posted a team-leading 11 shots with six shots on goal as a junior
Since 2017, has helped the Beavers to a 48-8-7 overall record, the program’s first NSIC regular-season title and a pair of NCAA appearances

Ally is a dynamic player. She is good on the ball and able to run at defenders but maybe even better with her off the ball movement. She has speed, quickness and can strike the ball with power. I'm sure she will show up on most teams scouting reports.

Head Coach Jim Stone

#9 Megan Dahl (CB, 5-8, Sr., Rosemount, Minn. / Rosemount HS)

Two-time All-NSIC performer (3rd team 2019; 2nd team 2018)
Racked up 1,684 minutes played in 2019, second on the team
Key member of a BSU defensive unit that allowed just eight goals in 2019 in NSIC play
Help BSU to seven shutouts in 2019
In 41 career matches, has a goal and two assists from her backline position
Has contributed to 22 shutouts and has surrendered just 17 goals since she stepped on campus
Helped BSU to a regular-season conference championship and NCAA Tournament appearance

Megan is as good a center back as you will find. She can win balls out of the air, settle them down softly with her feet and begin the attack, organize a back line and emergency tackle when needed. She never leaves a field without getting her jersey dirty and acquiring a few bruises. She's a throw back.

Head Coach Jim Stone

CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY, ST. PAUL

After a 17-3-3 season (12-1-2 NSIC) and an NSIC championship, the Golden Bears look to continue their momentum in 2021. Their .804 winning percentage was the highest in the program’s Division II history, after improving from their previous best of .605 in 2018. The 2019 season also extended CSP’s double-digit win streak to three consecutive years. What started in 2017 as a 10 win record was maintained in 2018 with 10 wins, then dramatically improved to 17 wins and a league championship in 2019.
The 2019 team made program history by being NSIC regular season champions, being NSIC Tournament runner-up, playing in the NCAA Central Region Tournament second round, and receiving votes in the final United Soccer Coaches Division II Top-25 poll. They also brought the program to its 10th NSIC Tournament appearance since 2003 and its third straight appearance since 2017.
With the departure of nine seniors, the Golden Bears will rely on the leadership of lone senior Cayla Renwick but will also expect the 18 freshmen to answer the call set before them by the defending champions.
Sophomore forward Nikki Anderson led CSP’s offense with 10 goals in 2019 as a freshman, followed closely by sophomore forward/midfielder Katie Anderson with eight. Both players were in the NSIC’s top-10 for goals with Nikki Anderson in second place and Katie Anderson in eighth place.
CSP will start off the season in St. Joseph, Missouri on Friday, September 3 and Sunday, September 5 playing Missouri Western State at 6 p.m. and Emporia State (Kan.) at noon, respectively.
The first home game of the season will be held at Sea Foam Stadium on Sunday, September 12 at 1 p.m. against Rockhurst (Mo.).

It's been a long time coming and we are super excited to get rolling this fall! This years squad will without doubt have more depth in every position and this will naturally create a positive but competitive environment. We will have a strong mix of experience and youth - that will give us an exciting balance as we prepare for a competitive NSIC season.

Head Coach Steve Bellis

#20 Katie Anderson (F, 5-9, So., San Diego, Calif. / West Hills HS)

In 23 games, has recorded 907 minutes on the pitch
Placed 8th in NSIC goalscoring in 2019
Earned 2020 NSIC All-Academic Team of Excellence
Three-time game winning goal scorer in 2019
Recorded her first career goal against Minot State, scored twice that game

Katie will return hungrier to play, to score than ever. I know she's missed the game and her team more than most and she certainly loves to compete. Her desire and work rate is infectious on the training ground and particularly on game day.

Head Coach Steve Bellis

#22 Cayla Renwick (D, 5-2, Sr., Cedar Rapids , Iowa / Prairie HS)

Recipient of 2020 Myles Brand All-Academic with Distinction Award
Earned 2020 NSIC All-Academic Team of Excellence
61 game veteran for CSP, 2,652 career minutes played
Member of the Dean’s List
Four-year member of SAAC

Cayla is a returning senior and one of our captains at CSP. As such, her leadership qualities will be extremely valuable and her ability to influence others is huge for us. On the field she reads the game better than ever and has some versatility to help us at several spots in the backline.

Head Coach Steve Bellis

UNIVERSITY OF MARY

The Marauders return a veteran-laden team in 2021. Of the 28 players who reported to camp over the weekend, 13 played for Head Coach Sarah Cook and UMary in 2019 when the Marauders finished 11-4-3 overall and 9-4-2 in Northern Sun play to finish 6th in the league standings. Cook adds 11 newcomers to a total of 17 players who competed for the Marauders last year in a season limited to just four matches in the spring.
First team All-NSIC forward Hannah Richter paces the Marauders offense. A senior from Bismarck, ND, Richer has started since arriving on campus. She scored seven goals – including three game-winners – and added five assists for 19 points in 2019. Cassidy Pierce has also started since her freshman season. Pierce earned 3rd team All-NSIC honors in 2019 after she anchored a smothering defense that held opponents to just 0.53 goals/game. Two other 2019 All-NSIC players also return for the veteran UMary squad. Goalkeeper Madisyn Waltman earned second team recognition as a sophomore after posting nine clean sheets in 18 games and registering the 19th best goals against average in the nation. She has posted 17 shutouts in two seasons. Senior defender Samantha Guzman received honorable mention honors in her first season at UMary after scoring three goals.
Other key offensive players back for the Marauders include Maureen Sullivan, who scored five goals in 2019, and senior Emma Davies and sophomore Noelle Vignieri, both of whom found the net three times in UMary’s last full season. Additionally Yasmina Dokara struck for three goals in four games last spring.
The Marauders have three scrimmages planned before hosting MSU Billings in the season opener on Labor Day.

This year’s teams is a very talented mixture of experience and youth, which really excites me! This last academic year has certainly taught us a lot and I’m extremely proud of the work this squad has put in for this season.

Head Coach Sarah Cook

#2 Hannah Richter (F, 5-5, Sr., Bismarck, N.D. / Century HS)

Earned 1st team All-Northern Sun honors as a junior in 2019
Led the Marauders in scoring in 2019 with seven goals – including three game-winners – and five assists for 19 points
Named NSIC Player of the Week when she scored both goals in a 2-1 win over #4 Minnesota State
Entering her fourth season as a starter

Hannah is a tremendous Athlete. She has spent time on the pitch in many different positions but has evolved into her key role as a forward. She is determined, competitive, and helps hold the team accountable as a member of the leadership team for UMary Soccer.

Head Coach Sarah Cook

#26 Cassidy Pierce (D, 5-5, Sr., Missoula, Mont. / Big Sky HS)

Earned All-NSIC 3rd team honors as a junior in 2019
Spearheaded one of the top defensive units in the nation in 2019 that posted nine shutouts and limited opponents to 0.53 goals/game, 11th in the nation
Three-time NSIC All-Academic team selection
A four-year starter for the Marauders

Cassidy is a very hardworking and determined student-athlete. She has grown tremendously during her career at UMary and evolved into a too top defender. She also leads the team as part of our leadership team.

Head Coach Sarah Cook

UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA CROOKSTON

The UMN Crookston soccer team returns to the pitch for the first time since the 2019 season after the 2020 season was cancelled due to COVID-19. Minnesota Crookston is entering their third season under Head Coach Kyle Halfpop. The Golden Eagles will have a young squad in 2021 with just two players who competed on the 2019 squad with Ashley Chomyn (R-So., MF, Winnipeg, Manitoba) and Gabriela Pinto (R-Sr., D, Beaverton, Ore.). The Golden Eagles will have a host of new players who will look to make an impact in 2021. Two players to keep an eye on will be Madelyn Teplansky (R-Fr., F, Apple Valley, Calif.) and Alyssa Pavlacic (R-Jr., D, St. Charles, Mo.). The Golden Eagles open up the 2021 season Saturday, Sept. 4 at Dakota Wesleyan University.

I’m really excited about this team as we will look completely different than our 2019 season. We only have 2 returning players from that squad, so we have a fresh approach to 2021. The mentality of this group is strong and they are creating the foundation for our program to be built. We will be extremely young and I think that brings a lot of good enthusiasm and a hunger to succeed.

Head Coach Kyle Halfpop

#7 Madelyn Teplansky (F, 5-3, R-Fr.., Apple Valley, Calif. / Apple Valley HS)

Played club soccer for the Apple Valley Storm (Calif.)
Helped her high school squad to a 17-5-3 mark during her senior season at Apple Valley HS
As a senior, scored five goals and had two assists in 23 games

Maddie works incredibly hard and has the work ethic up front that we have missed in the past. She is comfortable on the ball and does not get rattled under pressure. She can play anywhere across the front three and if needed, can drop deep to collect the ball. Maddie is very strong with both feet which makes her tough to defend. She is always looking to score or set up goals.

Head Coach Kyle Halfpop

#8 Alyssa Pavlacic (D, 5-9, R-So., St. Charles, Mo. / St. Charles West HS)

Played one season at NCAA Division II University of Illinois-Springfield
Appeared in seven games with two shots during her freshman season for the Prairie Stars
Helped Illinois-Springfield to an 8-10 mark

Alyssa is a natural leader for us. She is extremely committed to our project here and helping to progress our program. She is a tenacious defender and shows a grittiness to win the ball. Her positioning is getting better as we transition her to a center back role. She is comfortable on the ball and will play a large role in starting attacks for us.

Head Coach Kyle Halfpop

UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA DULUTH

The Bulldogs are eager to get back on the pitch for the first time since late 2019. Head Coach Greg Cane’s 27th season at the helm is shaping up to be a good one, with 12 new players from two recruiting classes joining 18 returning players. With 30 players on the roster and a mix of veterans and new faces at every position, everyone will be competing for playing time from the start. Senior captain Holly Kaboord led the team in shots (34) and shots on goal (20) during her sophomore campaign and is poised to continue her impressive stat run this season. Goalkeeper Sophia Grenz played in all 18 games of the 2019 season and looks to continue to backstop the Bulldogs. Look to freshman central midfielder Emilia McGiffert to make an immediate impact. The Bulldogs went 6-10-2 overall in the 2019 season with a 4-9-2 mark in NSIC conference play. The team will take the field in Houghton, Michigan, for their first NCAA competition in two years when they play Michigan Tech on September 2nd. The NSIC slate kicks off on September 17th at home against Minot State.

We had a quiet Covid year compared to most other NSIC Schools. We did not play many matches last Spring. So, I feel this year's team is very eager to compete. We have a 30 person roster, so competition to play will be high. I feel we have good balance positionally through our roster. As always, we will strive to be a playoff team.

Head Coach Greg Cane

#32 Holly Kaboord (M, 5-6, Sr., Oregon, Wis. / Oregon HS)

Led the team in shots (34) and shots on goal (20) in 2019
Played in all 18 games of the 2019 season, starting in 16
Played the third-most minutes of anyone on the team in 2019 with 1369
Scored her first career game-winning goal over the previous Division II champions Bridgeport on September 12, 2019

Holly may not be a forward, but she thinks Attack constantly. She has played nearly every position in her career at UMD. She can be physically dominate, but also is skilled. Holly is noted for her heavy shot. She is a Team Captain, so she's highly respected by team mates.

Head Coach Greg Cane

#1 Sophia Grenz (GK, 5-6, Sr., Burnsville, Minn. / Shattuck-St. Mary's

Started all 18 games of the 2019 season
Played 1711 minutes of the 2019 season
Recorded a .768 SV% in 2019
Had a total of 87 saves in 2019, good for ninth all-time at UMD

Sophia is an intense player. Her presence on the field is notable to all participants. She prepares year-round so she is typically among the most fit on the team. She is a driven person who has a disciplined lifestyle. She is a good role model for other players. She will be our #1 and our success could rely on her.

Head Coach Greg Cane

MINNESOTA STATE UNIVERSITY, MANKATO

Minnesota State finished its 2019 season with a 19-4-1 overall record, including a 12-3-0 NSIC record. The Mavericks finished third in the NSIC standings, but went on to claim their fourth consecutive NSIC Tournament Championship, and eighth overall, as they defeated the University of Mary, Augustana and Concordia-St. Paul. Minnesota State also made its ninth straight appearance in the NCAA Tournament, and 14th overall, following its win at the NSIC Tournament. MSU shutout both Augustana (1-0) and Central Missouri (3-0) to claim its second NCAA Central Region Championship, before falling to Grand Valley State in the Elite Eight. MSU will see many letterwinners return from the 2019 season, including juniors Jenny Vetter and Kelly Friedrich. Vetter played and started in all 24 games for the Mavericks during the 2019 season as she led the team in goals with 20 and in points with 47. Vetter is tied for 10th all-time in goals scored at Minnesota State with 26. Friedrich played and started in 22 games for the Mavericks during the 2019 season. During MSU’s NCAA Tournament games against Augustana and Central Missouri, Friedrich played in every minute as the Mavericks posted back-to-back shutouts. As a unit, the Mavericks led the NSIC in several categories during the 2019 season, including goals (69), assists (61), points (199), shots (507) and shots on goal (268). The Mavericks also ranked second in the NSIC in shutouts with 14.

Coming off a trip to the last NCAA Elite 8, were extremely excited to build on that. Minus a couple key losses to graduation, we return nearly every piece from that team and we’ve obviously added additional talent to compliment that group. In addition, we’ve had a year to grow and despite the struggles that Covid cause last year, I still feel our team has made huge jumps in development is very well positioned to put together one of the best seasons Maverick Soccer has ever seen. We’re excited about the opportunities ahead of us and the prospects of competing under more normal conditions for a National Championship.

Head Coach Brian Bahl

#4 Jenny Vetter (F, 5-3, Jr., Mankato, Minn. / East HS)

Named the D2CCA Central Region Player of the Year in 2019 and the NSIC Offensive Player of the Year
Claimed All-American First Team honors from CoSIDA and USC during the 2019 season, to go along with D2CCA Second Team honors
Led the team in scoring with 20 goals and seven assists for a total of 47 points
Scored two goals ins five games during the 2019 season
Is just one of two Mavericks in program history to score at least 20 goals in a season joining Amber Dusosky who did so twice (28 goals in 2000 & 30 goals in 2002)

Jenny is best known for her phenomenal pace, which is without question very impressive, but I think what puts her above and beyond and makes her so extremely special is her relentless work rate. She is one of the most driven, determined competitors I’ve ever coached.

Head Coach Brian Bahl

#7 Kelly Friedrich (D, 5-7, Jr., Ames, Iowa / Ames)

Has played in a total 43 matches during the 2018-19 seasons, including 42 starts
Has played 3,234 minutes during her two seasons with the Mavericks and has tallied one goal and two assists for four points
Named to the NSIC All-Academic Team twice
Played all 90 minutes in Minnesota State’s two shutouts against Augustana and Central Missouri in the NCAA Tournament during the 2019 season
Played 90 minutes or more in 10 of MSU’s 24 matches during the 2019 season

Kelly is coming off an incredible 2019 season where she helped lead our backline and team to the Elite 8. As good as Kelly was in 2019, she looked even more impressive during limited action in 2020. She’s as competitive, tough and physical as they come!

Head Coach Brian Bahl

MINNESOTA STATE UNIVERSITY MOORHEAD

MSUM has a blend of experience and new faces heading into 2021 under sixth-year head coach Christie Kopietz. Junior forward McKenzie Ickert led the team in points (nine), goals (three) and assists (three) in her freshman campaign. Senior midfielder Anna Steadland is back after starting 17 games in 2019, she had one goal, two assists and four points. Senior defender Kaylee Parsons started all 18 games in 2019 and had one goal,, one assist and three points. Senior defender Jennifer Wickman started all 18 games in 2019. Senior goalkeeper Kayleigh Sedlacek returns; she’s played in 32 games and has a 1.33 goals allowed average, 239 saves and six career shutouts.

Coming out of a COVID year I am just happy to get to have a real season. I am excited to enjoy the game with my players and to feel the thrill of competition again. We are returning a core group of players but also have some really exciting newcomers.

Head Coach Christie Kopietz

#34 McKenzie Ickert (F, 5-5, Jr., Waconia Minn. / Waconia HS)

Started all 18 games as a freshman in 2019
Led team with three goals
Also led team in points (nine) and assists (three)
Had nine shots on goal, third-most on team

Kenzie was an impact player in her freshmen year (19). She is dynamic off the ball and is excellent back to goal. She is a hard player to defend coupled with a high work-rate she is one to watch this fall.

Head Coach Christie Kopietz

#1 Kayleigh Sedlacek (GK, 5-10, Sr., Bothell, Wash. / Henry M Jackson HS)

Started 16 games in 2019
Led team with 108 saves and 5-6-4 record in goal
Has six career shutouts
Had 239 career saves in two seasons as a starter, which is fourth-best in school history

Kayleigh's career at MSUM has been outstanding. She has tremendous skill as a goalkeeper but what makes her extraordinary is the way she puts her teammates at ease. Her position is incredibly stressful and she balances the moments to be tenacious with her playful personality.

Head Coach Christie Kopietz

MINOT STATE UNIVERSITY

Head coach Chris Clements begins his third season leading a youthful yet experienced Minot State Beavers squad that went 5-4-0 overall during the 2020-21, COVID altered season, which included a 3-3 record against NSIC opponents in non-conference play. The Beavers return a trio of fifth-year seniors who will provide leadership for the team, a group that includes Minot State’s all-time scoring leader, Sofia Lewis. Lewis, a 5-foot-6 midfielder from Jacksonville, Fla., netted 7 goals and added 1 assist in seven games during the 2020-21 season and now has 42 goals and 15 assists in her four years at Minot State. Also back is fifth-year senior Melanie van Walstijn, a 5-8 forward from Zijderveld, Netherlands, and Hannah Mitchell, a 5-2 midfielder from Phoenix, Ariz. Mitchell, a standout defensively, has 1 goal in her four years with the Beavers, while van Walstijn has scored 7 career goals and has 8 career assists in four seasons at Minot State. The Beavers also will benefit from returning 8 redshirt freshman who had the unique opportunity to gain value collegiate game experience last season during a COVID-altered, nine-game spring season.

We are excited to see what our team has learnt over the past Covid year and how are incoming players will add to that team. Having the past year to grow, develop and play games has been a different but rewarding experience. I hope that this helps our program achieve great results both in the classroom and on the pitch.

Head Coach Christopher Clements

#11 Sofia Lewis (F, 5-6, Sr., Minot N.D. / Minot HS)

Named to the All-NSIC Second-Team in 2019
Started all 18 games for the Beavers
Led the team in shots (70), shots on goal (35), points (15), and goals scored (7)
Recorded a career-high 11 shots and seven shots on goal at Minnesota-Crookston
All-NSIC First Team selection in 2017 & 2018

Not only is Sofia a dynamic attacking player that owns the career goal scoring record at Minot State University, but she is also an athlete that gives back to the community. Sofia serves as a head coach on youth teams in Minot and is a great example for aspiring female soccer players of what hard work and dedication can produce on and off the soccer field. Sofia is a three-year captain for the soccer program while also leading in the classroom, which is evident in her recognition as a NSIC All-Academic Team of Excellence Member. We are excited for what Sofia will do this year both in the community and on the pitch.

Head Coach Christopher Clements

#1 Maddie Kindred (GK, 5-8, R-Jr., Soldotna, Alaska / Soldotna HS)

Attended Northern Oklahoma College - Tonkawa
Appeared and started six games for Minot State in spring of 2021
Played 540:00 total minutes
Made 18 saves for a .750 save percentage
Posted a record of 5-1-0 with two shutouts

Maddie brings a calming energy every time she steps on the pitch. She has the perfect mix of composure and competitiveness that allowed her to transfer in and win over the spot as our starting goalkeeper. She is a dedicated student who is following her passion of helping others into her future nursing career. Maddie also stays involved in the Minot community by developing youth goalkeepers, giving them a mentor that they can strive to be as they get older. We are looking forward to watching Maddie make a difference on and off of the field this year!

Head Coach Christopher Clements

NORTHERN STATE UNIVERSITY

The Northern State University soccer team is coming off a 5-12-1 overall record and 3-11-1 league record in 2019. The Wolves return six players from that squad and welcome 24 since the fall of 2020. In addition, Northern welcomes Bob Casper in his first season at the helm of the program. Hannah Smith and Teya Trujillo were named the team’s players to watch for the upcoming season. Smith joined the Wolves in the fall of 2020 and will suit up for her first official game as a Wolf this season. Trujillo returns to the pitch after significant playing time in 2018 and 2019. The Utah native scored two goals in her freshman campaign, including a game winner versus Wayne State. The 2021 Wolves roster hails from nine different states and five different countries. The open the season with a pair of home exhibition contests on August 24th and 27th versus Morningside and Jamestown. The Wolves kick-off the NSIC slate on September 17th hosting Bemidji State.

The team has worked hard in the off-season, and have high hopes and expectations for this fall. The senior class has demonstrated a great deal of desire and dedication in their preparations for the fall. Our freshmen group brings a lot of talent to assist our returners in the pursuit of our team goals. We will have solid depth across the field, and will have a blend of underclassmen and upperclassmen on the field this fall.

Head Coach Bob Casper

#10 Hannah Smith (F, 5-6, So., Essex, Great Britain / Barking Abbey College)

Entering her first season with the Wolves
Scored 45 goals in 2018-19 season, as the league’s leading scorer at Barking Abbey College

Hannah is a player who possess a solid touch who will be able to maintain possession for our team. She has a good attacking mind, and will be looked upon to help set up our attack. She provides a good compliment to the players around her, which gives her the chance to unlock defenses.

Head Coach Bob Casper

#7 Teya Truijlo (M, 5-5, Sr., Riverdale, Utah / Roy HS)

A two-year starter for the Wolves
Two goals and three assists in her career

Teya is a very determined player who will be valuable in breaking up the opposition attack. She also has a high work rate which allows her to transition her defensive efforts into the attack. Teya is a great leader, and will provide organization during matches.

Head Coach Bob Casper

UNIVERSITY OF SIOUX FALLS

After losing the 2020 season due to CoVID-19 pandemic, Head Coach Brittany Domino and her team are focused on continuing to develop a program which has made substantial progress over the previous seasons. The Cougars, which will open the season with a home match against Northwest Missouri State on Friday, Sept. 3 at 6 pm at the USF Sports Complex, will look to improve on the 4-13-1 mark of 2019 (4-10-1 in league play). USF returns 13 players from the 2019 team and have added 12 new faces. Upfront, USF will have leading scorer Grace Held, who had three goals and seven points in 18 matches (10 starts) in 2019. Five new players, including freshman Hannah Welch, will bring depth and skill for the Cougars to the USF front. In the midfield, returner Kyla Gushard (17 matches – 10 starts) and Player to Watch Aundria Vargas are among the individuals expected to contribute. In the back line, returner Bailey Kerhli and sophomore Kelsey Oswald are strong and athletic performers. In goal, USF will feature three keepers, senior Alexis Wemhoff, junior Holli Knudsen and freshman Caroline Titze.

Our team has spent a lot of time recommitting to who we are as a program and what is really important to us over the last year. We are excited to see how this translates to the field. We have a lot of young talented players that will be able to come in and really have an impact on our program. This is by far the most depth that our program has had which we hope will help us take another jump forward as a program.

Head Coach Brittany Domino

#17 Aundria Vargas (F, 5-4, Jr., Hayward, Calif. / James Logan HS)

Named Academic All-NSIC in 2020
Talented midfielder, who can apply pressure on defenses
During two seasons of competition at USF, played in 35 career matches with 29 starts and 2,320 minutes
Registered two career goals

Aundria brings an intensity to our program. She is a very creative player that opens the game up for the players around her. She is going to be a great leader for all of the young players that will be joining our attack.

Head Coach Brittany Domino

#14 Kelsey Oswald (D, 5-6, So., Yankton, S.D. / Yankton HS)

Was among the leader in minutes this past spring, playing 90 in five of six matches
Strong, talented and athletic defender in the back line
With 2020 season canceled, 2021 will be first season in competition after earning all-state honors twice at Yankton HS in 2018, 2019
Prep Academic All-American, who was part of unbeaten Yankton HS team in 2019 that registered 12 shutouts and allowed just five goals

Kelsey is one of the hardest working players that I have ever coached. She is the type of player that leads by example and she will set the bar really high for her teammates.

Head Coach Brittany Domino

SOUTHWEST MINNESOTA STATE UNIVERSITY

The Southwest Minnesota State University soccer program, coming off one of its best seasons in recent years in 2019, will look to continue its upward trend in 2021. SMSU finished 11-7 overall, 9-6 NSIC, in 2019, recording the program’s first winning season since 2014 and qualifying for the NSIC Tournament for the first time since 2015. This year’s squad will be relatively young as the roster features no seniors, three juniors, four sophomores and 17 redshirt or true freshmen.
Junior forward Abbey Hoisington, who earned All-NSIC second team honors in 2019, is SMSU’s top returning scorer after racking up five goals and 18 points in 2019. Sophomore Alex Lotts also returns after ranking third on the team in scoring in 2019 with six goals and 15 points. Junior defenders Katie Oatman and Alex Harmdierks both return to anchor a defense that recorded six shutouts in 2019.

I think we are all excited to get back to accessing our passion for competition within the sport of soccer. We are excited to add our young talent into the experienced returners and watch them grow and develop together. We are looking forward to the journey of this season as we look to improve with every opportunity to play and compete.

Head Coach Erin Kasmarik-Mallett

#14 Abbey Hoisington (F, 5-4, Jr., Chantilly, Va. / Freedom HS)

All-NSIC second team in 2019
Finished second on the team in 2019 with 18 points, including five goals
Two-year starter

Abbey is a very creative and intelligent player that is dangerous every time she has the ball on her feet. She makes our team dangerous on the attacking end with chances, assists, and goal. She lives and loves the game and helps spread that passion and commitment to our program.

Head Coach Erin Kasmarik-Mallett

#20 Katie Oatman (CB, 5-7, Jr., Plattsmouth, Neb. / Plattsmouth HS)

Helped SMSU record six shutouts in 2019
Started all 18 games in 2019 and scored one goal
Two-time Academic All-NSIC honoree

Katie is a possesses great leadership and communicate skills that help keep out team organized and defensively sound. She also has the ability to be an imposing defender to win balls in the air and start our attack with the range of her passing ability.

Head Coach Erin Kasmarik-Mallett

ST. CLOUD STATE UNIVERSITY

The St. Cloud State University women’s soccer team looks to continue its upward trajectory in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC) after reaching new heights in 2019. The Huskies are coming off an impressive 2019 campaign, as they qualified for the NSIC tournament for the second consecutive season after posting a 11-4-3 overall record during the regular season, including a record breaking 10-3-2 mark in NSIC play. St. Cloud State defeated rival Bemidji State 1-0 in the opening round of the conference tournament that season to advance to the NSIC Semifinal round for the first time in program history. With a stacked roster filled with talented newcomers and wily veterans, including Claire Shea (Excelsior, Minn. / Chanhassen), Jenna Dominguez (Geneva, Ill. / Geneva Community) and Nicole Friis (Appleton, Wis. / Appleton North), the Huskies should once again finish in the top-6 in the NSIC.

We’re energized for the opportunity to play and compete this fall. We have critical experience returning in our team leaders; Nicole Friis, Claire Shea, Cassidy Lehrke, Evie Kohn and Juliana Da Silva. They are ready to lead the way and set the standard. We’re excited to be together and continue the evolution of Huskies Soccer. As we’ve said throughout the summer, it’s time to write our story.

Head Coach Gretta Arvesen

#8 Claire Shea (F, 5-11, Sr., Excelsior, Minn. / Chanhassen HS)

2019 Second Team All-NSIC honoree; 2x Academic All-Conference honoree (2019, 2020)
Leading scorer for the Huskies in 2019 with seven goals and five assists for 19 points; also tallied 67 shots during the 2019 season and three game winners for St. Cloud State
Tallied game-winning goals in victories against Minnesota State and Minot State to help the Huskies clinch a spot in the NSIC Tournament
Named the NSIC Offensive Player of the Week on September 30, 2019 after leading the Huskies to a 2-1 win over No. 2 Minnesota State on September 29, 2019

Claire is one-of-a-kind. She is a fiercely loyal teammate, a born leader, and prides herself in taking care of the details. She chooses to put Huskies Athletics and the SCSU community first. She consistently goes above and beyond, by helping with on-campus recruiting efforts, organizing community service initiatives, and leading study hall for the team. We’re grateful for her commitment to bring her best effort, compete every day, and most of all her unique compassionate leadership.

Head Coach Gretta Arvesen

#6 Kira Sosinske (D, 5-8, Jr., Savage, Minn. / Burnsville HS)

Appeared in 20 games with 18 starts as a first year in 2019 and tallied three shots on goal
Led the Huskies to a 11-4-3 overall record during the regular season, including a record breaking 10-3-2 mark in NSIC play
Member of the 2020 NSIC Academic All-Conference Team and Academic Team of Excellence

Kira likes to keep things simple. Her competitive drive, combined with her love of the game, consistently inspire others, and help push our team’s speed of play. She has a special way of energizing her teammates with her humor, while holding them accountable to our high standard of play. We’re grateful for Kira’s commitment to bring her best effort, compete every day and most of all her unique ability to inspire others through leading by example.

Head Coach Gretta Arvesen

UPPER IOWA UNIVERSITY

The Peacock women’s soccer team is excited to return to the field this fall. After a busy spring of friendly matches, Upper Iowa is poised to make a run in the Northern Sun Conference and return to the postseason tournament. Head Coach James Price returns for his sixth season with UIU and he brings back some great experience led by NSIC Players to Watch Haley Ramberg and Aimee Sies. Ramberg will pace the Peacock attack this season; through her first two years she has played in 31 matches and scored 5 goals. The junior made huge strides last spring and became a force for defenders to deal with. Sies also returns for her junior season after earning All-NSIC honorable mention honors in 2019. The Brooklyn, Wis. native, who scored two goals in 2019, leads the defensive line in front of goal keeper Natalie Rudrud. Rudrud started all 36 matches in her first two seasons and grabbed 254 saves earning a NSIC Goalkeeper of the Week award in each of those seasons. UIU also returns experience in the form of Katie Samuels, Emma Fellowes, Credence White, Grace Birdsley and Leah Willenbring as UIU looks to return to the NSIC Championships for the first time since 2016. Upper Iowa will play three exhibition matches in the preseason leading up to a pair of non-conference matches. The Peacocks will take on Missouri Southern State University on Sept. 3 and the University of Wisconsin-Parkside on Sept. 12 before opening play in the conference. Upper Iowa will open their home and NSIC slate on Sept. 17 and 19 when they host Southwest Minnesota State University and the University of Sioux Falls.

We are really looking forward to competing in meaningful games again, and testing ourselves in the always competitive NSIC. We have tremendous respect for all our opponents, but we also feel like we have a nice team balance of maturity, strength, speed and talent that will make us a dangerous group to play against. Like most teams it will be important for us to get off to a strong start, and stay healthy as we navigate our way through the schedule. We will look for our experienced players to help our talented newcomers quickly adjust to college soccer and compete for every point.

Head Coach James Price

#22 Haley Ramberg (F, 5-3, Jr., St. Francis, Minn. / Blaine HS)

Played in 32 matches and started 18 over the last two seasons
Scored five goals including three in 2019 to lead UIU
Placed 15 of her 26 shots on goal

We think Haley will be a constant threat for teams this year. She has always had tremendous speed and the ability to get behind defenses, but her finishing in all types of scenarios as improved beyond recognition. This makes Haley a confident and deadly striker, and we are very excited to have her up top for us this season.

Head Coach James Price

#12 Aimee Sies (D, 5-6, Sr., Brooklyn, Wis. / Belleville HS)

Named All-NSIC Honorable Mention in 2019
Started all 36 matches over the last two seasons
Scored two goals in 2019 while leading the defense for the Peacocks

Aimee has been an integral part of our defense for 3 years, and we are delighted that she is back for her senior year. Her on the field experience, and off the field maturity makes Aimee a tremendous leader for us in the back, and she provides us with needed balance on the left side. We also look to Aimee to provide great service from set pieces, which can be a useful offensive weapon for us.

Head Coach James Price

WAYNE STATE COLLEGE

New head coach Emily Hester takes over a Wildcat program that went 6-9-4 overall and 6-7-2 in the NSIC in the 2019 season, qualifying for the NSIC Tournament for the first time since 2006. WSC is coming off a strong spring season, going 5-3-1 in nine contests while producing 15 goals learning a new system under Coach Hester. The 2021 Wildcat squad will be young with just four seniors on a 28-player roster. Senior midfielder Megan Phillips is the top returning scorer for the Wildcats with two goals while leading the team with 27 shots on goal in the 2019 campaign. Fellow seniors Madison Kemp and Abby Sutton are other returners that scored for WSC in 2019. Sophomore Haley Hoffman was tabbed as the Wildcat Defensive Player to Watch this season and will help lead a Wildcat defense that posted six shutouts in the 2019 season. Three players will vie for playing time at goalkeeper this season – junior Regan Ott and sophomores Katherine Hagman and Sidney Truman. Wayne State is scheduled to open the 2021 season on Sunday, September 5th at Northwest Missouri State. The Wildcats have 10 home contests this season, starting Friday, September 10th hosting 23rd-ranked Missouri Western.

It is an exciting time for our program here at Wayne State College. We have an outstanding group of returning players, in addition to an excellent 2021 recruiting class. Overall, this team embodies the values that are necessary for success both on and off the soccer field. These qualities include hardwork, commitment, dedication, and passion. I look forward to leading this amazing group of women for the 2021 soccer season.

Head Coach Emily Hester

#25 Megan Phillips (M, 5-7, Sr., Gillette, Wyo. / Campbell County HS)

Top returning scorer with two goals in 2019
Led team in shots on goal with 27
Ranked second in shot with 34
Two year starter

Megan is a dynamic attacking player who works hard every single day no matter what. She leads by example and pushes herself and her teammates to be the best they can be. As a senior, she has shown tremendous leadership these past 4 years both on and off the soccer field. She continues to be a key contributor within our team.

Head Coach Emily Hester

#22 Haley Hoffman (D, 5-6, So., Simi Valley, Calif. / Simi Valley HS)

Leads WSC defense that had six shutouts in 2019
Made switch from forward to defender

As a former attacking player, Haley has transitioned successfully to being a key contributor to our defense. She not only is a great defender, but also a great teammate. She holds herself accountable and puts in the effort each day to succeed.

Head Coach Emily Hester

WINONA STATE UNIVERSITY

The Winona State University women’s soccer team is ready to start their 2021 campaign after over a year-long wait of competition. The Warriors are looking to build upon their 2019 season, where they finished ninth in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC) and just missed out on the NSIC Tournament. Coach Matt Kellogg, who is in his fourth year leading the Warriors, will rely on a veteran roster of 18 upperclassmen this season. Eight returners played in at least 10 games in 2019, including five that started 10 or more games. Defensively, the Warriors will depend on Bailey Deininger. The junior started 17 games in 2019 and led all field players in minutes logged during her freshman season. Even though Deininger has just one full season under her belt, coach Kellogg trusts her on-field decisions as the leader of the defense. On the attack, the Warriors will be led by senior Missy Greco, a three-year staple on the team who has seven goals and 17 points in her career. Greco is the veteran of the attack with having 50 matches played under her belt. Offensively, the Warriors will also look to Jaida Wiege. Wiege led the team in shots (57) and shots on goal (24) during her freshman campaign, while contributing to three goals and eight points. In net, the Warriors will rely on senior Yanel Ortiz, who started all 18 games and posted four shutouts in 2019.

After our long absence from competition and a Championship season I am really excited to see how this group comes together. We took the time away from the game to really focus on our team culture. I believe the work these young women have put into this team over the past year and half will payoff on and off the field this fall.

Head Coach Matt Kellogg

#7 Missy Greco (M, 5-3, Sr., Bartlett, Ill. / South Elgin HS)

Has played in 50 matches over the last three seasons (30 starts)
Has totaled three assists, seven goals, and 17 points during her career
Named to NSIC Third Team in 2018

Missy has come off a great spring season and I think is ready to take the next step in her development. Last summer she spent the entire summer at the Marine Corps. Officer Candidate School and I've noticed a great difference in her attitude, preparation, and leadership. Missy has really grown in her understanding of the game and I think it will show in our attack this year.

Head Coach Matt Kellogg

#27 Bailey Deininger (D, 5-7, Jr., Hartland, Wis. / Arrowhead HS)

Played the duration in 15 of 18 matches (17 starts) her freshman season
Helped lead the defense to four shutouts in 2019
Most minutes played amongst field players (1603)

This past spring Bailey was playing like a four year starter even though she had only played one fall season. Bailey has shown that she has the knowledge and ability to make the difficult decisions in the back and has earned my trust to make in game adjustments. It's like having a coach on the field when she is out there.

Head Coach Matt Kellogg

2021 NSIC Soccer Composite Schedule

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