West Central Reporter

The Western Illinois University women's soccer team has announced the addition of seven new recruits to its 2025 class. The recruitment aims to enhance the team's capabilities on both offense and defense, with new players including a goalkeeper, defensive midfielders, and forwards.

Among the recruits is Perla Rios from Muscatine, Iowa. A Center Defensive Midfielder, Rios previously played at Iowa Central Community College where she earned several accolades including Honorable Mention All-Region and First Team Academic All-Region honors. "I chose WIU because of the campus and facilities, and the coaching staff," Rios stated. "The team atmosphere felt like a family and I am excited to join WIU!"

Anaiya Morris from Pickering, Ontario will also be joining as a forward. Morris's cousin Greg has a background in professional football with teams such as the Edmonton Eskimos. She cited WIU's team culture and academic opportunities as reasons for her choice.

Abigail Schilling is another recruit, hailing from Perryville, Missouri. As a Central Attacking Midfielder from St. Vincent High School, she has been recognized for her scoring abilities and contributions on the field. Schilling expressed her enthusiasm by saying, "Macomb felt like a home away from home."

Tyra Sterling joins as a Striker from Hamilton Ontario with achievements in club soccer championships at Disney Showcase and Charity Shield events. She mentioned feeling an immediate connection to both the school and team.

Elise Grant is set to join as a Midfielder/forward from Peoria, Illinois with impressive high school records including leading her team in goals and assists in 2024. Her decision was influenced by being close to home for family support.

Mahelee Caron comes in as a goalkeeper from Saint-Jerome, Canada with experience playing at NEPSAC honorable mention level. Caron appreciated how welcomed she felt by the staff which contributed to her decision.

Finally, Madeline Stickelmaier rounds out the recruits as a midfielder also from Peoria, Illinois. With years of club soccer experience under her belt, Stickelmaier highlighted her appreciation for the campus size and team bond at WIU.

These additions are anticipated to bolster Western Illinois University's women's soccer program significantly ahead of future competitions.