CEDAR CITY, UTAH – Southern Utah University Women’s Soccer announced a notable haul of incoming talent on its 2025-26 signing day, bolstering the program with three promising athletes poised to make an immediate impact. Head Coach Kai Edwards expressed enthusiasm for the incoming class, highlighting their skill, versatility, and character.
The Thunderbirds’ newest additions include Rosemary, Ashlyn Woodbury, and Suika Shibutani, each bringing a unique skillset and impressive accolades to the team. this signing class aims to build upon Southern Utah’s recent successes and further elevate the program’s competitiveness within the Big sky Conference and beyond.
Rosemary, an attacker known for her ability to consistently beat the first defender, is a threat defenses must respect, according to Coach Edwards.”Off the pitch, her kind nature and genuine kindness make her a fantastic addition to our team,” he said.
Ashlyn Woodbury, a 5’11” Center Back from Canton, georgia, arrives from Creekview High School and the United Futbol Academy. Woodbury’s resume includes recognition as a U.S. Youth National Team ID center Selection, an ECNL Southeast All-Conference player, a Conference Cup Southeast Team member, and an All-Region and Defensive MVP in High School Soccer. Coach Edwards praised Woodbury as a “versatile and intelligent player,” noting her ”high soccer IQ allows her to excel anywhere across the back six.” He also highlighted her supportive personality,stating she is “always ready to encourage and uplift her teammates.”
Rounding out the class is Suika Shibutani, a Midfielder from Okayama City, japan, who previously played at Eastern Arizona CC. Shibutani, standing at 5’3″, earned 2025 All-ACCAC Region I honors and was a DI Second-Team selection. Coach Edwards described Shibutani as a “dynamic playmaker” with “remarkable skill and vision,” adding, “Eastern Arizona CC does a great job cultivating talented student-athletes.” He also commended her “humility and dedication, always striving to improve while supporting her teammates both on and off the field.”
Fans can follow the Southern Utah Soccer team on Twitter and Instagram @suusoccer and on Facebook at Southern Utah Soccer for the latest updates. Those interested in supporting Thunderbirds athletics can donate at https://www.suu.edu/gift/athletics/.
