Waldorf Women’s Soccer Welcomes 12 Newcomers for 2025 Season

FOREST CITY, Iowa – The Waldorf University Women's Soccer program is set to enter the 2025 season with a fresh wave of talent, welcoming 12 new players to the roster. This incoming class blends four transfers with eight freshmen, bringing depth, versatility, and competitive edge to the Warriors' lineup. The group hails from seven U.S. states and two Canadian provinces, showcasing the program's growing reach in recruiting student-athletes from across North America.

Head Coach Dr. Thomas Goodman expressed his excitement about the incoming class:

"Bringing in this group of 12 new players is a huge step forward for our program. Each of them has the talent to make an impact, but more importantly, they have the character and mentality that fit our culture. We're building a team that competes with intensity, supports one another, and represents Waldorf with pride. This group adds depth, versatility, and a competitive edge that will push us to new heights in 2025."

The newcomers include a balance of offensive threats, defensive anchors, and versatile players capable of filling multiple roles. Several have earned all-conference honors, captained their high school or club teams, or transferred in with collegiate experience at the NJCAA and NAIA levels.

Mia Ramirez – Junior, Goalkeeper

Douglas, Arizona | Transfer from Cochise College

The Warriors' first addition to the 2025 roster is junior goalkeeper Mia Ramirez, a transfer from Cochise College in Arizona. Originally from Douglas, AZ, Ramirez brings collegiate experience, composure under pressure, and a strong presence in the box. Known for her leadership and shot-stopping ability, she will add depth and competition to Waldorf's goalkeeping unit.

"I chose Waldorf because after talking to the coaches and hearing about the team's dynamics and how well the team gets along, it made me feel comfortable enough to want to come here and continue my soccer journey with a team and coaches who care so much about the improvement of not only the team as one, but each individual player," Ramirez said.

AbbieGail Michael – Sophomore, Goalkeeper

Grants Pass, Oregon | Transfer from Southwestern Oregon Community College

Joining the Warriors' goalkeeping corps alongside fellow newcomer Mia Ramirez is sophomore AbbieGail Michael, a transfer from Southwestern Oregon Community College. Originally from Grants Pass, OR, Michael brings strong communication skills, quick reflexes, and a confident command of her area. Her cross-country move to Iowa is a testament to her commitment to both her athletic and academic journey.

"I chose Waldorf because of the support of my teammates. Moving across the country wasn't easy, but my team has made me feel at home. Before I chose to come to Waldorf, the love and support from them was so amazing," Michael said.

Maria Duran-Velazquez – Sophomore, Forward/Goalkeeper

San Diego, California | Transfer from San Diego Miramar College

Versatile and determined, sophomore Maria Duran-Velazquez joins the Warriors for her first season after competing at San Diego Miramar College as a freshman. Originally from San Diego, CA, Duran-Velazquez brings a unique skill set, having the ability to contribute both as a forward and as a goalkeeper. Off the field, she is pursuing a degree in Health Promotion and Exercise Science with a minor in Psychology. Known for her work ethic and adaptability, she is ready to embrace any role that helps the team succeed.

"I'm prepared to work hard and contribute wherever I'm needed. I'm excited to grow as a player and as a person while being part of this team," Duran-Velazquez said.

Jackie Valenciano – Senior, Forward

Denver, CO | Transfer from Central Methodist University

Senior forward Jackie Valenciano brings veteran experience and attacking versatility to the Warriors after transferring from Central Methodist University. Known for her ability to create chances and finish under pressure, Valenciano will look to add an offensive spark and help lead the Warriors' front line in 2025. Off the field, she is pursuing a degree in Exercise Science with a minor in Psychology, with the goal of becoming a physical therapist.

"I chose Waldorf because of the great relationship I had with the staff, coaches, and teammates when I came to visit," Valenciano said. She credits her teammates and coaching staff for helping her transition smoothly into the program and hopes to use her platform to inspire younger players. Her goals for the season include contributing to the team's attack, helping secure a spot in the conference tournament, and continuing to grow as a leader within the program.

Brooklynn Ruth – Freshman, Defender

Wilmington, Delaware | Concord High School

Freshman defender Brooklynn Ruth joins the Warriors from Concord High School in Wilmington, DE, bringing a decorated prep career and a strong defensive presence to the back line. A lifelong player who started at age three, Ruth has experience both in midfield and defense, but found her natural home at center back when she began playing club soccer. Known for her physicality and ability to contribute offensively, she earned First Team All-Conference honors twice and recorded the most goals as a center back in her conference.

"I chose Waldorf because when I met the girls they all acted like family and brought me into their group even before I had committed. The coaches were very supportive of whatever I decided and answered all my questions honestly, which made me believe this was the right team for me," Ruth said.

Cli'Sha Thurmond – Freshman, Forward

Saint Louis, Missouri

Freshman forward Cli'Sha Thurmond joins the Warriors from Saint Louis, MO, bringing pace, creativity, and a strong attacking instinct to the 2025 squad. With a natural eye for goal and the ability to stretch defenses, Thurmond is eager to make her mark at the collegiate level.

"I chose Waldorf University because it offers me the chance to pursue my career and continue my passion I adore the most. And it gives me the chance to explore outside of my comfort zone by introducing me to different things and meeting new people while not being too far from home. It also gives me the space to be independent and spread my wings as I'm now entering the world as a young adult," Thurmond said.

Katrina Suthard – Freshman, Midfielder/Defender

Jackson, Georgia

Freshman Katrina Suthard joins the Warriors from Jackson, GA, bringing versatility and composure to the 2025 roster. Capable of playing both as a defensive midfielder and a left back, Suthard is known for her ability to support teammates, stay composed under pressure, and close down opponents quickly. During her high school career, she showcased her adaptability by excelling in multiple positions, including goalkeeper and center midfielder.

"I chose Waldorf University to experience something new and step outside my comfort zone. I heard great things about this university and the soccer team. The place is small and beautiful, which is something I was always looking for in colleges. I mainly chose this school because of soccer — I heard great things about the program and how everyone appreciates and supports each other. That's the environment I like to play in," Suthard said.

Naveah Clark – Freshman, Goalkeeper/Defensive Midfielder

Peoria, Arizona | Centennial High School

Freshman goalkeeper and defensive midfielder Naveah Clark joins the Warriors from Centennial High School in Peoria, AZ, bringing determination, versatility, and a relentless work ethic to the 2025 roster. Clark began playing soccer at age 13, starting her journey with State 48 FC as their starting goalkeeper before moving to the North Scottsdale Sand-Sharks, where she truly fell in love with the game. The supportive coaching staff, dedicated teammates, and countless training sessions with both her club and high school coach helped her build confidence, sharpen her skills, and develop into the player she is today.

"I chose Waldorf because of the strong team culture, welcoming atmosphere, and coaching staff that believed in my potential. It felt like a place where I could grow, compete, and make a difference for myself and the team," Clark said. Known for giving 100% effort in every training, practice, and game, she is ready to contribute in goal or in the midfield as the Warriors take on the 2025 season.

Sakira Brown – Freshman, Forward

Charles City, Iowa | Charles City High School

Freshman forward Sakira Brown joins the Warriors from Charles City High School in Charles City, IA, adding pace, energy, and an attacking mindset to the 2025 roster. Known for her ability to create scoring opportunities and stretch defenses, Brown is eager to test herself at the collegiate level while representing her home state on the field. Her competitive drive and willingness to work hard make her a strong fit for the Warriors' attacking unit.

"I'm excited to join a program where I can grow as a player and a person, while contributing to a team that values hard work and unity," Brown said.

Ryley Vigneau – Freshman, Midfielder

Alberta, Canada | Left/Right Back/Wing

Freshman midfielder Ryley Vigneau comes to Waldorf from Alberta, Canada, bringing 14 years of playing experience and a lifelong dream of competing in the United States. While she primarily played as a left or right back at home, Vigneau is eager to make an impact on the wings for the Warriors in the 2025 season. Her pace, adaptability, and vision on the ball give her the tools to contribute both offensively and defensively.

"I loved the tight-knit community feel, and the support that came from the girls and coaches with it. Waldorf felt like the right decision for what I need to grow as an athlete," Vigneau said. Her ambition extends beyond college, as she hopes to continue her career in a competitive league after graduation.

Zoe Sifuentes – Freshman, Defender/Midfielder

El Paso, Texas | Captain John L. Chapin High School

Freshman defender and midfielder Zoe Sifuentes joins the Warriors from Captain John L. Chapin High School in El Paso, TX. Bringing versatility, work rate, and a team-first mentality, Sifuentes is prepared to contribute in multiple roles for Waldorf during the 2025 season. Her tactical awareness and ability to transition between defense and midfield make her a valuable addition to the squad. Off the field, she is pursuing a degree in Business, balancing her academic goals with her passion for the game.

"I'm excited to begin my college soccer career at Waldorf and be part of a team that values hard work, unity, and growth," Sifuentes said.

Ella Opdendries – Freshman, Forward

Houston, British Columbia, Canada | Criminal Justice Major

Freshman forward Ella Opdendries joins the Warriors from Houston, BC, Canada, bringing athleticism, versatility, and a competitive spirit to the 2025 roster. A multi-sport athlete in high school, Opdendries competed in track, soccer, volleyball, and gymnastics, building a strong foundation of speed, agility, and coordination that she now channels into her attacking role on the pitch. Off the field, she is pursuing a degree in Criminal Justice with aspirations of becoming a detective.

"I came to Waldorf because I felt welcome and wanted to be part of a team that is rebuilding from the ground up — and I want to be part of that," Opdendries said.