NIU WomenS Soccer Poised for Strong Season with Returning Offense, Navigating Defensive Challenges
DeKalb, IL – August 8, 2024 – The Northern Illinois University women’s soccer team is gearing up for it’s season opener next week, fueled by a potent returning offense and a developing defensive core. Head Coach Michael O’Neill expressed optimism following the initial training period, highlighting a positive transition for new players and a hungry attitude from returning stars.
Last season marked a significant step forward for the Huskies, achieving a nine-win record – the program’s best since 2010 – and a scoring output of 29 goals, the highest since 1998. A substantial portion of that offensive firepower returns for 2024, with 21 of those goal-scorers still on the roster.
Leading the charge is junior forward Tyra King, who earned Second Team All-MAC and All-Region honors after netting eight goals in 2024. Senior Kelsi McLaughlin, who transferred from Illinois State last year, contributed four goals and is expected to play a key role in the attack. O’Neill emphasized the invaluable experience these players bring, stating, “The confidence of seeing the ball hit the net is a huge piece, something you can’t coach.” He specifically noted King’s positive mindset and readiness during the first week of training.
Adding to the offensive potential is Alyssa Stephenson,who had a strong spring season and received a call-up to the Jamaica U20 national team. O’Neill believes Stephenson has matured and is prepared to build on her freshman year experience. He anticipates these three players will be central to the team’s attacking success, but stressed the need for consistent performance throughout the season.
Though, the Huskies face challenges on the defensive side. The goalkeeping position features three players with limited collegiate experience, and injuries have created a youthful look along the backline. O’Neill revealed that only one returning defender was available for their recent exhibition game, with others recovering from injuries.
This situation has provided valuable opportunities for freshmen to compete, forcing them into a “baptism by fire” to adapt to the speed and physicality of Division I soccer. While O’Neill prefers to rely on experienced players in key defensive positions, he acknowledged the necessity for the freshmen to rise to the occasion and anticipates competition for starting roles as injured players return.
The Huskies will kick off their regular season with a pair of home matches: against Marquette on Thursday, august 14th, and DePaul on Sunday, August 17th. O’Neill views the non-conference schedule, which includes matchups against teams from the Big east and Big Ten conferences, as crucial preparation for the Mid-American Conference (MAC) season. He stated, “We are on the right path…That should allow us good experience and good minutes to be ready for MAC season, which is what it is all about.”
