Chambana Sun

Illinois soccer has announced the signing of ten new players for the 2025 season. These additions are expected to bolster the Fighting Illini roster with talent from various regions and backgrounds.

Among the recruits is Ashlyn Adams, a forward from Wheaton, Illinois. Adams set a record at Wheaton Warrenville South High School by scoring 28 goals in 2024. She was recognized as an all-conference, all-state, and all-Midwest honoree. On choosing Illinois, Adams said, "I chose Illinois because of its great academic and athletic programs."

Kyra Berman joins as a forward from Overland Park, Kansas. She led Blue Valley West High School to a state championship with 17 goals and 11 assists in 2024. Berman expressed her reasons for joining Illinois: "I chose Illinois because of its established soccer program and tradition and its premier academics."

Millie Byerly, a defender from Owasso, Oklahoma, tallied 12 goals and six assists during her junior year at Owasso High School. She remarked on her decision: "Illinois felt so comforting the moment I arrived on campus."

Sosi Dadekian from Bloomington, Illinois, brings defensive skills honed at Bloomington High School. Her leadership helped Central Illinois United achieve notable success in national competitions. Dadekian noted the welcoming atmosphere at Illinois: "Immediately I noticed the strong team chemistry."

Tatym Dever comes from Chico, California, where she contributed to her high school's championship win in 2023. Dever highlighted the competitive environment at Illinois: "The coaches and players all share a love for the game that is contagious."

Perla Del Rosario Guzmán of Chicago has played three seasons with Indy Premier SC. She emphasized both academic and athletic opportunities at Illinois: "The University of Illinois was everything I was looking for both academically and athletically."

Ava Hancock hails from Springfield, Illinois, with significant achievements in both soccer and track. Hancock appreciated the team's culture: "I also loved the team culture and beautiful facilities."

Téa Mayson from North Vancouver has international experience including participation in CONCACAF competitions. Mayson praised both academic programs and athletic challenges at Illinois: "I'm excited to be a part of the Illini family."

Kayla Pardini joins as a midfielder from Smithtown, New York. Her high school career includes numerous accolades for offensive performance. Pardini shared her enthusiasm about joining: "The competitive environment and excellent team culture was everything I was looking for."

Ryleigh Wood is another forward addition from Wylie East High School in Texas. Wood's decision was influenced by multiple factors including location and reputation: "Meeting the staff and players created an immediate sense of comfort and inclusion."

These new recruits are anticipated to enhance both team dynamics and performance for Illinois soccer.