UCLA Women's Soccer: Roster Changes and Outlook for the Upcoming Season
With the 2025 campaign on the horizon, the No. 8 UCLA Bruins are preparing for a season that promises to showcase a significantly transformed team. The offseason has been marked by key graduations, both incoming and outgoing transfers, and the arrival of highly anticipated freshmen, leading to a potentially different look for the Bruins as they step onto the field for their first contest.
Departures and Professional Aspirations
Nine members of the 2024 squad have made their mark by signing with professional teams, with six joining the National Women’s Soccer League. The Bruins have seen significant talent transition to the professional level, leaving gaps to be filled by new and emerging players.
Key Players Moving to the NWSL
- Lilly Reale: A standout defender, Reale, who now plays for NJ/NY Gotham FC, was a dominant force during her collegiate career. She was recognized as the conference Defensive Player of the Year for three of her four years, including her senior season in the Big Ten. Her leadership as squad captain was pivotal to the team's success.
- Quincy McMahon: The versatile defender/forward signed a three-year contract with San Diego Wave FC.
- Jayden Perry: Perry joined former Bruin Reilyn Turner at Portland Thorns FC.
- Notable Statistics: The Bruins defense will need to find a way to replace Campbell, a Stanford transfer, who led the nation in shutouts to help secure the second-highest shutout rate in program history.
Goalkeeping Dynamics
The departure of key players also brings changes in the goalkeeping position.
- Layla Armas: Sophomore Layla Armas, who served as Campbell’s backup goalie during the 2024 run but never saw action, is in contention for the starting spot.
- Daphne Nakfoor: Armas will compete with freshman Daphne Nakfoor, who has attended the United States Youth National Camps for the past three years.
Incoming Talent and Fresh Faces
The Bruins are welcoming a wave of new talent that could significantly impact the team's performance.
- Grace Shank: Freshman midfielder Grace Shank has already made a strong impression. In an exhibition victory against LMU, she assisted the Bruins’ second goal, passing to junior forward Oruha Hayashi, a transfer from Iowa Western. Aozasa noted that Shank was one of the best players on the field.
- Oruha Hayashi: Hayashi boasts the United Soccer Coaches Player of the Year honor and received a first-team All-American selection for Junior College Division 1 during her sophomore year at Iowa Western.
- Meila Brewer: Freshman defender Meila Brewer may help address the defensive line departures from 2024. The 2024 U-15 CONCACAF champion was named the No.
Team Ranking and Expectations
Ranked No. 8 nationally, the UCLA Bruins are under pressure to maintain their high standards despite significant roster turnover. The blend of experienced players and promising newcomers will be crucial to their success in the upcoming season.
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