Chicagoland Soccer
2018 Girls All-State Team
By Patrick Z. McGavin (introduction, player profiles, reporting)
and Steve Nemeth (reporting, research and statistical data)
The third time's most certainly charmed -- for all sides.
In the spring of 2016, Chicagoland Soccer launched its first high school All-State Team designed to recognize the achievement, talent and depth of the best prep players in Illinois. The wealth of notable players made it a particularly daunting task.
With this year’s third edition, the same structural challenge remains as does a nagging problem -- there are simply more good players than available slots.
The best teams from Illinois compare favorably with any other state or region in the country. Last year's Class 3A state champion Barrington finished atop the national standings of polls conducted by Top Drawer Soccer and USA Today/NSCAA.
Despite beating the previous no. 1 St. Charles North and no. 2-nationally ranked New Trier en route to its second-consecutive state championship this season, Barrington was slotted second nationally in the final TDS girls poll of 2018.
Besides Barrington, New Trier and St. Charles went three and four in the national poll. Confoundingly, third place Class 3A finisher Naperville North was placed at no. 18. In Top Drawer’s Midwestern rankings, four of the top five and six of the top eight programs came from Chicagoland.
That is the context and backdrop.
The Chicagoland Soccer All-State Team is composed of 121 total players, effectively 11 teams of 11 players. We strived to make this a merit-based team. Just as the best movies tend to be made by the most talented directors or the best novels are written by the most accomplished writers, the All-State team reiterates the best programs.
Chicagoland Soccer sought input from coaches, culled information from media reports and used evaluations from its contributors. Coaches were free to nominate as many players as they wished. The only criteria for eligibility was competing for an Illinois high school varsity team. The final product features players from 75 high schools throughout the state.
Statistics were very important in determining the case of each individual player, though those numbers were framed within the context of individual skill and impact, team achievement, quality of competition and strength of schedule.
There are many other accomplished and promising players in the state. Seniors who did not make the All-State Team may be listed as Chicagoland Soccer Special Mention honorees. This is the most extensive list we have undertaken so far: 182 members from the Class of 2018 from 118 schools state-wide are on the roster.
Underclassmen who were considered for this team or have future all-state potential are posted on the Chicagoland Soccer All-State Watch List. This grouping of the classes of 2019, 2020 and 2021 is 277 strong from 148 high schools.
Players are grouped by four positions: goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders and forwards. They are listed alphabetically.
All told, 572 student-athletes are recognized on our Chicagoland Soccer award lists.
Congratulations to our honorees.
Keepers
Maggie Avery, Loyola, senior
A three-time All-State Team selection, she posted 14 shutouts against an elite schedule and helped lead the Ramblers to a 15-game unbeaten streak punctuated by an appearance in a Class 3A sectional final. Avery combines power and anticipation with excellent balance and vision. Santa Clara recruit.
Faith Davies, Glenbard East, senior
One of the most versatile athletes in the state, she posted 15 shutouts and conceded just nine goals in 24 games for a .375 goals-against average. She also played meaningful minutes as a midfielder and defender, where she scored two goals and added an assist for a Class 3A sectional qualifier. Repeat selection. Headed to Illinois-Chicago.
Meghan Dwyer, New Trier, junior
In her first year as a starter, she emerged as the Trevians’ next great keeper, an athletic and aggressive talent who allowed just nine goals in 22 games for a 0.409 goals-against average for the Class 3A state runner-up. She posted 16 shutouts.
Maddie Hausmann, Naperville North, senior
Made a spectacular return to high school after playing club. Physical and athletic, she posted 18 shutouts and conceded just 15 goals in 29 games (.517 GAA) for a nationally-rated power that finished third in Class 3A. Loyola recruit.
Anna Johnston, Saint Viator, senior
A dynamic and rangy talent, she posted 17 shutouts and keyed the Lions’ impressive run to the Class AA state championship game. Allowed just 18 goals in 26 games for a 0.692 goals-against average for the state runner-up. New Hampshire recruit.
Mercedes King, Triad, senior
A year after leading the Knights to a Class AA state championship in 2017, King constructed another superb year with her combination of speed, reaction and quickness. Playing more than 1,500 minutes, she posted nine shutouts and surrendered just nine goals for a 0.48 goals-against average for a sectional finalist.
Bekah Nielsen, Normal West, junior
She revealed athleticism, grace and skill in both the field and protecting the goal. Nielsen recorded 151 saves in posting 15 shutouts for the Wildcats, who finished fourth in Class AA. She allowed just 18 goals in 27 games for a 0.67 goals against average. She blocked four penalty kicks and also was the team’s free kick specialist.
Bailey Redden, Belleville West, senior
A repeat selection, Redden demonstrated skill and toughness in recording 13 shutouts and leading the Maroons to the first supersectional appearance in program history. She improved on her junior year totals to surrender a sharp 0.63 goals-against average against top-flight competition. Southeast Missouri State recruit.
Jillian Rejczyk, Wauconda, senior
She concluded a remarkable career with a school record of 31-career shutouts. Rejczyk utilized quickness, reaction and athleticism to superb ends, posting 16 shutouts and allowing just six goals in 20 games (0.3 goals-against average) for a two-time Class AA sectional finalist. Trine University recruit.
Sam Schmitz, Barrington, senior
She contains multitudes -- brains, talent, a flair for the dramatic and a level of accomplishment that is almost unmatched. The Chicagoland Soccer Player of the Year powered the Fillies to back-to-back Class 3A state championships by negating New Trier’s great offensive talent in signature shootouts. Helped Barrington defeat three top-five teams in the country -- St. Charles North, Naperville North and New Trier -- in five days. Two-time Chicagoland Soccer MVP of the Match in state title game. Repeat selection. Harvard recruit.
Monica Wilhelm, Antioch, senior
Two-time selection combines a physical style and high skill level in registering 9.5 shutouts and allowing 20 goals. A four-year starter, she posted 39.5 career shutouts. Iowa recruit is the first female Big Ten athlete in history of school.
Defenders
Sarah Avery, Naperville Central, senior
Transcends statistics with her command of the game and ability to nullify the opposition's offense with her range, physical ability and high skill level. She is incredible at winning 50-50 balls and clearing threats off the line. Repeat selection. Northern Illinois recruit also had goal and two assists for Class 3A sectional qualifier.
Christine Batliner, Barrington, junior
A nervy and dynamic talent, she brought athleticism and skill to a gifted backline that posted 15 shutouts for the back-to-back Class 3A state champions. She also flashed great offensive skill with three goals and nine assists.
Riley Burns, Loyola, senior
Showed toughness and resilience in returning from a foot injury that knocked out her entire junior year. Led a superb Ramblers’ backline that posted 13 shutouts. She also played in the midfield to help offset some injuries and lead Loyola to a Class 3A sectional final. The last of three players from a legendary family, she is following her older sisters to play at Iowa.
Alondra Carranza, St. Charles East, sophomore
A physical player with a high-motor, speed and power, Carranza combines excellent technique with a disruptive style and a penchant for being in the middle of the action. Contributed to the offense with a goal and two assists. Helped the Saints record 11 shutouts.
Marta Cholewa, Fremd, senior
As a competitor she stands virtually alone. Cholewa is a tough, relentless and unyielding two-way talent. A Grand Valley State recruit, she made a spirited and emotional return from a torn ACL to energize a young Vikings team. Shifting fluidly from the back to the middle, she showed poise, vision and an uncommon feel for the game.
Katie Hansen, Glenbard East, senior
A two-time selection, Hansen established a new benchmark of excellence. A starter on the Rams’ Class 3A third place team in 2016, she combines great technical ability, a high work rate and a feel for the game that helped Glenbard East qualify for the sectional semifinals. A key piece of a skilled, athletic backline that allowed just 15 goals in 24 games. Montana recruit.
Jess Hieb, Normal West, junior
A superb talent, the rangy and athletic combo defender/midfielder excelled playing multiple positions for the Wildcats. She scored 17 goals and contributed 12 assists for the Class AA fourth place team and helped her side post shutouts in five state tournament games.
Caroline Iserloth, New Trier, senior
A lockdown defender, she concluded a seemingly unsurpassable career. Iserloth started in four Class 3A state title games, winning two championships and finishing as the runner-up twice. Part of a suffocating defense that registered 18 shutouts and allowed just nine goals in 27 games. Repeat selection.
Leland Keller, Lake Forest, junior
Kept her team afloat after the Scouts lost nine Division I recruits to club soccer. A converted midfielder, she shifted to the back and solidified Lake Forest’s defense with toughness, size and speed. Scored two goals and added three assists.
Jamie Kwon, Warren, senior
The Winona State recruit Kwon played with poise and talent. The three-year starter brought a toughness, skill and high IQ to a young Blue Devils squad that showed tremendous progress while fusing a talented group of underclassmen with established talent.
Rachael Lutter, Kaneland, junior
A breathtaking talent and one of the state’s most versatile players, she played every field position. “I was ready to play her in the goal if we needed,” Kaneland coach Scott Parillo said. Scored 17 goals and added nine assists. Cincinnati recruit.
Francesca Marconi, Downers Grove North, senior
Great competitor and intense performer, she helped elevate the Trojans to uncharted territory with a bracing and physical style that made Downers Grove North’s back third virtually impenetrable. She keyed a backline that posted 11 shutouts and reached a Class 3A supersectional for the second-straight year. Started on Class 3A fourth place team in 2017.
Jennifer Masello, Downers Grove South, senior
The leader and top talent on a sharp and technically accomplished backline, Masello played with intensity and fearlessness in powering a defense that posted nine shutouts. She led the Mustangs to a share of the Gold Division title of the West Suburban Conference and a Class 3A regional championship.
Erin McCarthy, Neuqua Valley, junior
Emerged as a breakthrough talent for one of the state’s best teams. She excelled as a two-way talent who scored four goals and anchored an athletic and imposing defense that posted 11 shutouts and conceded just 13 goals in 20 games. Named all-tournament at Naperville Invitational. Lipscomb recruit.
Mia Milazzo, Andrew, defender, senior
A significant reason the Thunderbolts captured the first state trophy in program history. Milazzo made an impact on both sides; she was typically assigned to shadow the opposition’s top player while helping unlock Andrew’s explosive offense. Despite missing four games, she contributed five goals and seven assists for Class 3A fourth place team. Missouri-St. Louis recruit.
Jenna Nichols, Batavia, junior
A highly disruptive and aggressive defender, Nichols brought a fierce and explosive temperament to a quality defense that recorded nine shutouts and averaged fewer than one goal allowed per game for a Class 3A regional finalist.
Sydney Parker, New Trier, senior
In a word, extraordinary. A scintillating two-way talent, Parker is a three-time All-State Team selection and played in three-consecutive Class 3A state title games. She was the centerpiece of an airtight defense that allowed just nine goals in 27 games. Almost unbeatable in the air, she showed a remarkable ability to finish on set pieces. Contributed 17 goals and three assists. DePaul recruit.
Madi Rosen, Barrington, junior
A two-year starter, she brought toughness, experience and savvy to a talented backline that came of age in the state tournament. She played with passion and high intensity and proved a crucial weapon as a facilitator who helped initiate the Fillies’ build-up with 10 assists for the now two-time defending Class 3A state champion.
Alyssa Siebers, Naperville North, senior
Formed a devastating combination with her twin sister Jessica in an athletic and overwhelming Naperville North defense that registered a stunning 37 shutouts against elite national caliber competition over the past two seasons. She added two goals and one assist. Illinois State signee.
Jessica Siebers, Naperville North, senior
Like her twin sister, Jessica is an athletic defender who acts like a piece of human velcro and annihilated the point of attack for the opposition. A Illinois State recruit, she was part of defensive force that yielded just two goals in seven state tournament games for the Class 3A third place finisher.
Lauren Stibich, Fenwick, senior
An Illinois recruit, she sacrificed her personal statistics by moving from her preferred attacking position to anchor the Friars’ backline. A gifted and explosive talent, Stibich scored five goals and added four assists in helping Fenwick post 11 shutouts and qualify for a Class AA sectional final where the Friars fell to eventual state champ St. Francis.
Caitlin Strong, Jacobs, senior
The gifted and versatile talent started her seamless transition to the back a season after she set the school’s freshman varsity scoring record in 2015. Saint Leo recruit showed toughness, resolve and a great sense of position in helping the Golden Eagles capture a PepsiCo bracket and reach a Class 3A sectional semifinal.
Lily Sykes, Carmel, senior
The learned and high-IQ defender mastered all angles in helping the Corsairs to their first sectional title as a Class 3A program. She was the emotional leader of a talented backline that posted 11 shutouts. As a freshman, she played situational minutes as a midfielder and defender on Class AA state championship team in 2015. Finished with three assists.
Cece Wahlberg, St. Charles North, junior
Stepped out of the considerable shadow of her star sister Gia and demonstrated talent, skill and an electrifying presence in helping the North Stars to an undefeated regular season and a stint at the top of one national ranking. She was an integral piece of superb defense that posted 11 shutouts. Converted midfielder had two goals and four assists.
Midfielders
Jacqueline Aleman, Lemont, senior
Four-year starter was part of a memorable class that won three state trophies. Proves the adage that skills and talent transcend size. She demonstrated toughness, vision and balance. Aleman often came back to aid the defense but still facilitated the Indians’ attack with nine goals and 19 assists for 25-win, Class AA third place team. Wisconsin-Stevens Point recruit.
Alyssa Bombacino, Neuqua Valley, senior
One of the top players from her talent-rich area, the Marquette recruit and two-time All-State Team selection is an electrifying talent in space and an elite finisher. Bombacino scored 12 goals and added six assists for the Class 3A sectional finalist. She ended her decorated career at third on the Wildcats’ all-time scoring list with 46 goals.
Katelynn Buescher, Naperville North, senior
Another scintillating and cool presence, Buescher brought flair and verve as a two-way talent who both controlled the ball and finished with authority. A two-time All-State Team selection, she scored 14 goals and created seven assists. The Illinois recruit, Buescher was at her best on the biggest stage as evidenced by her game-winning goal in the supersectional.
Jolie Carl, Highland Park, junior
One of the bright young talents on the North Shore, she improved from her breakout sophomore year to score 14 goals and distribute seven assists for the Giants. Smart, quick and explosive, she is very inventive at finding angles and is excellent in space.
Barbie Castellanos, West Chicago, junior
Emerged as a star and one of the best players ever produced by her school. Castellanos showcased speed, quickness and a sense for the game that was beautiful to watch. Despite commanding all kinds of attention from defenses, she scored 20 goals and distributed 16 assists for the Wildcats.
Jenna Dombrowski, Bartlett, senior
A physical and powerful player, she is fast with the ball and shows an excellent first touch. The repeat All-State Team selection scored 14 goals and contributed 10 assists in leading the Hawks to back-to-back shares of the conference championship. Ball State recruit is first player in school history to earn Upstate Eight all-conference recognition all four years.
Jenna Dominguez, Geneva, junior
She expanded on her breakout sophomore campaign to establish herself as one of the bright offensive talents in her class. Industrious with the ball, quick and blessed with vision and great closing speed, she scored 24 goals and distributed four assists for the Vikings. Repeat selection.
Olivia Dreyer, Notre Dame (Quincy), senior
She punctuated a great career by scoring 25 goals and distributing 13 assists in leading the Irish to back-to-back Class A state championships. Explosive and physical with the ball, Dreyer was at her best in the big games. She scored two goals against Althoff in a state semifinal and added a goal in the state championship victory over North Shore Country Day. A McKendree University signee.
Edith Edwards-Mizel, North Shore Country Day, sophomore
A whirling dervish of a talent, the explosive Edwards-Mizel was a thrilling and breakout talent in her class who propelled the Raiders to unprecedented heights. Her dramatic goal in the 92nd minute punched North Shore’s ticket to Class A title game. She scored 28 goals and distributed 21 assists.
Sydney Gratz, Geneva, junior
Named as her team’s most most valuable player by her coach and teammates, the talented and skilled Gratz put together another exemplary and diversified year. She scored 11 goals and recording a team-best 13 assists against top-notch competition. Repeat selection is an American University recruit.
Michayla Herr, Barrington, senior
A tremendous talent who made the leap from supporting player to leading role in powering the Fillies to back-to-back Class 3A state championships. The three-year starter played a crucial role in giving the talented next generation of Barrington talent a helping hand as they grew and developed this season. She starred as a scorer (13 goals) and creator (10 assists). Scored game-winner in 76th minute against Naperville North in state semifinal. A Wisconsin recruit.
Olivia Hurt, IC Catholic Prep, junior
Hurt seized the spotlight with the graduation of Tessa Langan and proved her breakout sophomore year was no no fluke. She expanded her role and diversified her game in demonstrating a brazen talent for getting to the goal and finishing. Hurt scored 31 goals and contributed 27 assists in leading the Knights to a Class A supersectional.
Lily Keiderling, Latin, senior
A remarkably poised and alert player, she combined a savvy feel for the game with an ability to anticipate action and movement in a way that felt uncanny. She scored 18 goals and distributed 17 assists for a 20-2-0 Class AA power and sectional qualifier that won both a PepsiCo bracket and the Chicago Cup.
Malori Killoren, Deerfield, sophomore
“The most talented player I have ever coached,” Deerfield coach Rich Grady said. She and New Trier standout Emma Weaver are the state’s top sophomores. Killoren scored 24 goals and distributed 11 assists for the Central Suburban North co-champs and Class AA sectional qualifier. She is capable of playing anywhere on the field and impacting the game in multiple ways. An elite and breathtaking talent.
Jordan King, Burlington Central, senior
She punctuated a remarkable two-year run by scoring 25 goals and distributing 18 assists. Living up to her name, she played a pivotal role in establishing the Rockets as a formidable program that defeated Class 3A state champion Barrington during group play of the Naperville Invitational. A two-time All-State Team selection, Miami (Ohio) recruit amassed 46 goals and 33 assists the last two years.
Zoey Kollhoff, Burlington Central, sophomore
Another breakout talent, Kollhoff parlayed a thrilling freshman year and showed ever greater levels of talent, finishing ability and creativity in open space. Making a great complement to King, she doubled her impressive goal title of last season with 30 goals and added 11 assists for the Class AA supersectional qualifier.
Mia Lisanti, Young, sophomore
She established herself as one of the bright young talents in the city. Lisanti utilizes speed, separation ability and a cool and savvy style that highlights her athleticism. She scored seven goals and added seven assists in helping the Dolphins reach the Chicago Public League city title game.
Audrey Marsaglia, Normal West, junior
She emerged as one of the best young talents in Central Illinois. Leading the Wildcats in shot attempts and goals, the dynamic and resourceful creator offset her lack of size with her shotmaking and creativity in getting to the goal. She scored 22 times and created five assists for the Class AA fourth place team.
Payton McDonnell, Saint Viator, junior
A prominent reason for the Lions’ return to the state finals, McDonnell plays with skill, style and a heady mixture of tenacity and drive. She showed superb accuracy and a flair for making decisive plays demonstrated by three-consecutive game-winners in the state tournament and the semifinal goal that propelled Saint Viator to the Class AA state championship game. Scored 16 goals and recorded nine assists.
Eileen Murphy, Lyons, junior
A physical and powerful target up-top, she used her size brilliantly to create pressure and play the ball off to the other Lions’ shooters. A repeat All-State Team selection, she scored eight goals and recorded seven assists for an undefeated conference champion and Class 3A sectional finalist.
Megan Nemec, Andrew, junior
A skilled passer, creator and finisher, Nemec powered the Thunderbolts toward the unprecedented with her precision touch and superb vision. She scored 13 goals and administered a team-high nine assists for Andrew, whose fourth place Class 3A finish earned the first state trophy in program history.
Anissa Nourse, Fenwick, junior
A human highlight reel and whirling dervish of a player, she balanced lightning speed and quickness with the ball with an instinct for scoring and facilitating. Nourse scored 20 goals and contributed three assists as the most feared and consistent offensive threat on a Class AA sectional finalist. Led team to championship game of Windy City Ram Classic and a PepsiCo bracket title.
Riley O’Brien, West Aurora, senior
The Blackhawks suffered a slow start before O’Brien orchestrated a thrilling and deeply satisfying finish with an 8-3-0 record down the stretch. With a tantalizing mixture of unselfish and skilled play, she is an elite creator who plays with assurance and grace. She scored five goals and contributed 17 assists. An Illinois State recruit.
Erin Peck, St. Francis, senior
A model of consistency and efficiency, Peck is almost unobtrusive, rarely calling attention to herself though always making the right play, whether it is a first touch or an explosive leap to the ball. She scored 11 goals and created 10 assists for the Class AA state champion. As a sophomore she also started on the fourth place team in 2016. Two-time All-State Team selection.
Ella Richards, St. Ignatius, freshman
A precocious talent, Richards emerged fully formed as a unique and defining talent who played well beyond her years. She scored 29 goals and contributed 14 assists in leading the Wolfpack to a Class AA sectional final. Richards proved a lethal and breakout talent who symbolizes the emergence of a top new city program.
Hailey Rydberg, St. Charles North, senior
An intense and deeply skilled competitor, Rydberg plays with a furiousness and deep sense of purpose. With Gia Wahlberg she formed one of the most devastating 1-2 punches in the country. A three-time All-State Team selection, the Iowa recruit combined blazing speed and a fearsome touch that made her virtually unstoppable. She scored 22 goals and recorded 15 assists to contribute to the North Stars unbeaten 21-win regular season and back-to-back supersectional appearances.
Giselle Sahagun, Mundelein, junior
The new talent invigorated the Mustangs’ attack with her possessive style and ability to finish in tight spaces. She scored 14 goals and contributed two assists as Mundelein captured the first undisputed North Suburban Conference title in program history.
Izzy Schmitt, St. Thomas More, senior
The four-year starter ended her career as a prolific scorer for a historically strong Class A program. She scored 17 goals and distributed a Champaign-area best 26 assists for a supersectional qualifier. Started as a freshman on fourth place Class A team.
Kelly Stayart, Cary-Grove, senior
An athletic and creative shotmaker, she was one of the best players in the Fox Valley. Blessed with ideal speed, size and vision, Stayart scored 15 goals and distributed 11 assists on a Class 3A sectional finalist that took Barrington to the brink before losing in a penalty shootout.
Abby Swanson, Downers Grove North, senior
Completed arguably the finest two-year run in the history of the program. The explosive and creative scorer experienced a scoring binge down the stretch in fueling the Trojans’ late-season surge. She scored 22 goals and administered eight assists for a Class 3A supersectional qualifier. Repeat selection and Loyola recruit, she led Trojans to fourth place finish last year.
Sarah Wagner, Springfield, senior
An elite playmaker, she engineered the Senators’ attack with a peerless sense of balance and creativity. Wagner showed a fantastic blend of anticipation and response to the moment. She scored seven goals and recorded 24 assists for a Class AA sectional finalist.
Alexandria Wawrzyniak, Round Lake, junior
A two-time All-State Team selection, Wawrzyniak expanded on the promise of her early years with a breakout season in leading the the Panthers to a school record for wins in a season. Bolstered by some very promising young talent, Wawrzyniak maximized her creative shotmaking and superb grasp of the game. She scored 17 goals and posted 20 assists.
Emma Weaver, New Trier, sophomore
An elite talent, Weaver made a daring bid as a top-10 national age player with another exhilarating display of creativity, vision, athleticism and cool under fire. She scored 15 goals and registered 22 assists for Class 3A state runner-up New Trier. Villanova commit scored three goals in the supersectional victory and had a goal and two assists in the state semifinal. Repeat selection.
Caroline Zimmer, St. Francis, junior
Another of the Spartans’ explosive scoring talents who plays with a cool intensity, Zimmer scored 14 goals and distributed seven assists for the Class AA state champion. She possesses excellent vision, balance and a feel for the game. Scored the game-winner in state semifinal victory over Lemont.
Forwards (52)
Zenaya Barnes, Carmel, junior
She made a spectacular entrance into high school soccer after a club sabbatical and time spent recovering from an ACL tear. Explosive and creative, Barnes scored a team-best 15 goals and posted six assists for the Class 3A supersectional qualifier. Had three goals in regional championship victory over Mundelein.
Nyah Bejarano, Eisenhower, junior
An explosive talent who hit the rare century mark, Berjarano totaled a cool 100 points with her stunning combination of 36 goals and 28 assists. She was the lynchpin of the Cardinals’ attack, evidenced by the rise of sophomore Anese English (50 goals).
Karli Boyd, Providence, senior
Blending a physical style with ingenuity and intelligence, Boyd used her scoring prowess to lead the Celtics to a deep state tournament run. She brought size, skill and speed in scoring 26 goals and created seven assists in leading the Celtics to a Class AA sectional final.
Grace Brauer, Belleville East, senior
A two-time selection, Brauer ended her career as one of the best players this decade from Southern Illinois. She combines strong athleticism with an intuitive feel for the game and scored 24 goals and added four assists. An Xavier recruit.
Maggie Brett, Loyola, junior
A dynamic and lyrical player, she fuses intelligence and creativity to startling effect. The repeat selection powered the Ramblers’ attack with 19 goals and significantly expanded her playmaking role with 12 assists. Brett powered the GCAC Red Division champion and Class 3A sectional finalist.
Kristin Brousseau, Lake Zurich, senior
An athletic finisher with a brilliant scoring touch and explosive ability to separate in space, Brousseau scored 22 goals and added eight assists in just 17 games. The repeat choice combined power and a velvet touch with superb vision. A Missouri recruit.
Mimi Camacho, Glenbard East, senior
A creative and dynamic finisher in space, Camacho combines power, speed and excellent accuracy. She was part of the Rams’ historic 2016 team that finished third in Class 3A. Expanding and diversifying her game, she scored 23 goals and distributed 10 assists for the sectional semifinalist.
Aly Crum, Rochester, senior
She made her name two years ago as an intriguing young talent on the Rockets’ Class AA state championship team. An electric scorer and deeply skilled on set pieces, Crum scored 20 goals and contributed seven assists. A North Central College recruit.
Lauren Davis, Grayslake North, senior
A solid and heady player who made a pronounced leap this year, Davis is a big, fast and powerful attacking player with a sharp command that exposes a defense’s vulnerabilities. She scored 28 goals and created 11 assists for a Class AA regional finalist. A Bethel University recruit.
Gracey DiBiase, Batavia, senior
“Her tactical flexibility is a dream for any coach,” Batavia coach Mark Gianfrancesco said. She moved from center back to a featured offensive role and ignited the Bulldogs’ attack with eight goals and 11 assists. A natural left-footer, she was brilliant on set pieces and free kicks.
Amanda DiNardo, Joliet West, senior
Playing high school after time spent in club, DiNardo demonstrated a ruthless and aggressive style of play that proved virtually unstoppable in open space. She scored 39 goals and added four assists for the Tigers. A Southern Illinois-Edwardsville recruit.
Shaina Dudas, Naperville North, senior
An integral player in the powerhouse program, the three-year starter diversified her offensive game and helped the Huskies qualify for their first state finals since 2012. She scored 11 goals and recorded a team-best 13 assists for the conference champion and Class 3A third place finisher. Illinois State recruit.
Grace Dunaway Lane, junior
On a diversified team that shared the wealth offensively, the athletic and electric talent shined the brightest for the city powerhouse. After a breakout sophomore campaign of scoring 19 goals, Dunaway sacrificed her scoring to deflect attention and balance the attack. She scored eight goals and added four assists for the four-time defending city champion. Repeat selection.
Erin Flynn, Benet, senior
A smooth and assured talent, she played under control and and displayed superb vision, balance and presence. Flynn scored nine goals and added 13 assists for a Class AA supersectional qualifier that posted a school record 20 victories.
Nicolette Gossage, Lincoln-Way Central, junior
One of the best players in the Southland, she plays with a passion and directness that powered the Knights’ attack. Dangerous from multiple points on the field and superb on set pieces, Gossage scored 22 goals and added six assists for a Class 3A regional finalist.
Saydie Holland, Sycamore, junior
A ferociously talented and creative scorer, Holland diversified her game further and showcased ever greater command of her gifts in deepening her skills as a spectacular two-way talent. Holland scored 23 goals and posted 19 assists for a 20-3-0 Class AA power that reached a sectional title game. Three All-State Team selection has 77 goals in her prep career.
Meredith Johnson-Monfort, Mahomet-Seymour, senior
This forceful and blinding talent punctuated her standout career with a prodigious scoring season. Utilizing speed, quickness and size, Johnson-Monfort scored 43 goals and added 13 assists for a 21-win Class AA power. An Illinois recruit, she finished her career with 117 goals and 44 assists.
Kennedy Jones, Columbia, junior
Made her case as the best small school player in the state as a thrilling and audacious scorer who smashed record books with 51 goals, 19 assists and 121 points for a Class A sectional finalist that was a top-ranked school in the final Illinois 10 rankings.
Nicole Kaspi, New Trier, senior
Just call her the “belle of the ball.” A graceful, passionate and vivacious talent who plays with great flair and brings a great sense of theater to the game, the remarkable talent punctuated a storied career with 18 goals and six assists. Played in four-consecutive state championships, winning two titles and finished as runner-up twice. Scored the Trevians’ goal against Barrington in state championship. Repeat selection and University of Chicago recruit.
Sam Koppers, Andrew, junior
Emerged as a gifted creator and skilled scoring threat, Koppers scored a team-high 20 goals and distributed four assists in powering the Thunderbirds to their first trophy in program history wth a fourth place finish in Class 3A.
Allie Kucera, Riverside-Brookfield, senior
Back from a sabbatical playing club, she turned her final year into a thrilling showcase of size, speed, creativity and unselfishness. Kucera scored 26 goals and contributed 20 assists for the Bulldogs. She finished with 83 career goals in three years. A Dayton recruit.
Bella Lestina, Lyons, senior
A thrilling talent who demonstrated poise, quickness and a command of the game, Lestina scored a team-high 15 goals and added 10 assists for an undefeated conference champion and Class 3A sectional finalist. A repeat selection and Loyola recruit.
Samantha Linn, Deerfield, senior
Made the leap to become an exceptional player who helped transform the Warriors into the most potent scoring team in school history. Linn’s speed, vision and creativity unlocked the complete potential of the Warriors’ attack. She recorded a school-record 26 assists and scored six goals for a conference co-champion and Class AA sectional qualifier.
Hannah Martin, Naperville North, sophomore
The next superstar from the Huskies’ vaunted program, the tall (5-11), rangy and athletic attacker emerged as a force to be reckoned with. Her second half performance put Naperville North at a different level. Martin scored a team-best 15 goals and added five assists for the Class 3A third place, nationally-rated power.
Taylor Mathenia, Belleville West, senior
A composed and skilled talent, Mathenia showed quickness and a terrific first touch in leading the Maroons to the deepest state tournament run in program history. She scored 20 goals and added four assists for a Class 3A supersectional qualifier. Southeast Missouri State recruit.
Stephanie Mazurek, Conant, junior
A prized young talent who fused everything into a dominant package, she emerged as a breathless and thrilling player who showed great instinct for the goal and also the ability to play off and create for others. She more than doubled her sophomore output with 22 goals and nine assists for a Class 3A sectional finalist.
Brinley McVeigh, Saint Viator, senior
Energized the Lions’ attack and propelled Saint Viator to its first state championship appearance in 13 years. After she was shifted up-top, she blitzed the opposition with 17 goals in the final 10 games that culminated with a second place Class AA state finish. Finished the season with 19 goals and six assists.
Kennedy Metzger, Waubonsie Valley, senior
Fighting off constant double teams, her goal total slipped from a year ago. The Ball State recruit, flashed a tremendous skill set and showcased a dangerous shot and an innate feel for breaking down the defense. Metzger scored 13 goals and added eight assists against top-notch competition.
Paige Miller, Wheaton Warrenville South, junior
A three-year starter, Miller punched her game to another level with her exhilarating display of touch, skill and power. She scored 13 goals and created 11 assists in leading her team to a runner-up finish in the top Pepsi bracket and a regional final.
Rachel Moore, Antioch, senior
A dynamic, instinctive and highly skilled creator and scorer, Moore shattered the single-season scoring records at her school with 34 goals and added 15 assists for a Class AA regional finalist. Had four goals in a regional semifinal. Ended her career with 74 goals. A repeat selection and College of Lake County recruit.
Ally Mussallem, Stagg, senior
In making a spectacular return from club soccer, Mussallem revealed positional flexibility, speed and size in powering the Chargers. She scored 15 goals and added nine assists for a Class 3A sectional finalist. A Purdue recruit, Mussallem was named Most Valuable Player after leading her team to the Windy City Ram Classic title.
Kendra Pasquale, St. Francis, senior
She shook off an injury-marred junior year to produce a highlight-filled final year. Revealing an uncommon blend of speed, quickness and competitive fury, Pasquale scored 19 goals and added 10 assists for the Class AA state champions. Scored goal and added an assist in a dominant state title game performance. Three-time all-state selection and Illinois recruit.
Hannah Peters, Notre Dame (Quincy), senior
A formidable talent and superb athlete, she anchored a skilled and diverse forward attack with her lethal combination as a scorer and facilitator. She scored 20 goals and recorded 13 assists for the back-to-back Class A state champions. Ended career with two goals and two assists in state title victory over North Shore Country Day.
Ashley Prell, Barrington, junior
She expanded her game to another level and solidified her standing as the state’s top junior with a remarkable state tournament performance. In showing a stunning combination of speed, power and competitive fire, she scored 22 goals and added 11 assists for the two-time Class 3A state champion. Illinois scored team’s only goal in regulation and the deciding PK in the Fillies’ shootout state title win over New Trier. A repeat selection.
Sophie Putrim, Young, senior
A lithe and electrifying player in space, Putrim demonstrated a superb all-around game as a scorer, creator and offensive catalyst. She scored a team-high 13 goals and added six assists in leading her team to a runner-up finish in the city tournament.
Stephanie Ramsay, Loyola, senior
A formidable shooter who is accurate from distance, Ramsay concluded her stellar career by scoring 14 goals and contributing six assists for the GCAC Red champion and Class 3A sectional finalist that lost only to Barrington and New Trier. A three-time All-State Team selection. Carnegie Mellon signee.
Maeve Riordan, Metea Valley, senior
A high-energy player who is poised and composed in the box, she scored 10 goals and added nine assists against elite competition. An Illinois recruit, she powered the Mustangs to their fifth-consecutive sectional appearance.
Hannah Rittenhouse, St. Francis, junior
Put everything together in making the transition from a highly promising player to a monumental talent who plays at her best in big games, Rittenhouse delivered a title game for the ages with a state record-tying three goals with an assist in the Class AA final win. Repeat selection scored 25 goals and added eight assists. Set to play at Iowa.
Mairead Ruane, Lemont, senior
At once prolific and unselfish, Ruane punctuated her excellent career by scoring 23 goals and contributing 20 assists for the Class AA third place team. She ended her career with 95 goals. As impressive, she surrendered her offensive role to shift to the back for the state tournament. A repeat selection, Ruane was a great specialist on free and corner kicks.
Rose Stackhouse, St. Charles East, senior
Responding to the loss of star classmate Chantel Carranza, Stackhouse elevated her performance and helped keep the Saints successful against one of the state’s toughest schedules. Exhibiting accuracy, touch and athleticism, Stackhouse scored 13 goals and added two assists for a sectional semifinalist. St. Mary's (Ind.) recruit.
Makayla Stadler, Glenbrook South, junior
One of the top players in her class, Stadler offers an intoxicating mixture of speed, creativity, touch and presence. The three-time All-State Team selection scored 16 goals and added seven assists for a Class 3A sectional semifinalist. Villanova recruit led team to championship of upset win of Lou Malnati’s Deep Dish Classic.
Caelyn Steffens, Normal, senior
A fantastic two-sport athlete, Steffens rates as one of the top players in the loaded Central Illinois region. A physical and intuitive talent, she scored 30 goals and added 18 assists for a powerhouse program that reached a Class 3A sectional final and held the top spot of the Illinois 10 state rankings. Wisconsin-Platteville recruit.
Myah Strokosch, Mundelein, senior
A terrific and resourceful player, Strokosch displayed a fantastic feel for the game with her adroit and dangerous use of through-balls. The heady finisher has an instinctive flair for creating scoring chances. She scored seven goals and added a team-best 10 assists in leading the Mustangs to their first unshared North Suburban Conference title. Set to play at Wisconsin-Parkside.
Bridget Taylor, Notre Dame (Peoria), sophomore
Solidified her status as a top-five player in her class, Taylor exhibited a great all-around game by being dangerous in space and highly creative with the ball. Her goal totals from her fantastic freshman year were down but her assists zoomed. She scored 22 goals and added 18 helpers for a Class AA supersectional qualifier. A repeat selection.
Erin Teevans, Wheaton Academy, senior
Proving decisively that skill, moxie and talent offsets a lack of size, Teevans finished her superb career as a dynamic all-around scorer and creator. Quick and explosive, she scored 28 goals and distributed 16 assists for a Class AA sectional qualifier. A three-time All-State Team selection, Teevans played on a Class A state title team in 2016 and finished as a state runner-up in Class AA last year. Taylor recruit
Tina Teik, Barrington, sophomore
A gazelle in the open field, this fluid and graceful talent emerged as a top five player in her class. Half of the Broncos overpowering combination with Ashley Prell, Teik scored 11 goals and added 10 assists for the repeat Class 3A state champions. Yale recruit has elite combination of size, speed, touch and accuracy.
Victoria Thornton, Plainfield North, senior
A fantastic athlete who combines great length, speed and finishing ability, Thornton was a punishing attacking talent who put constant pressure on the opposition. She scored 15 goals and had nine assists for a conference co-champion and Class 3A regional finalist. Howard recruit.
Gia Wahlberg, St. Charles North, senior
One of the most feared players in the state, Wahlberg was the fulcrum of a devastating offensive attack. The three-time All-State Team selection exhibited athleticism, power and speed in scoring 22 goals and creating 15 assists for a nationally-rated powerhouse that reached a Class 3A supersectional. A Michigan State recruit.
Faith Washko, Sacred Heart-Griffin, sophomore
Emerged as a breakout talent and one of the best prospects in her class, Washko is an electric, high-motor athlete who ignited the Cyclones’ attack. Scored 25 goals and added eight assists for a Class AA sectional finalist.
Liesl Whitener, Althoff, sophomore
Breaking onto a wider platform with elan and grace, Whitener illustrated her significant talents as an explosive finisher and a keen student of the game. She played graciously for herself and teammates. Whitener scored 33 goals and added 18 assists for the Class A third place Crusaders.
Peyton Willie, Yorkville, senior
A heady player who maximized her scoring chances despite facing defenses designed to neutralize her, Willie proved virtually unstoppable in space as an intuitive and skilled finisher in tight quarters. Great on set pieces and in the field of play, Willie scored 44 goals and added four assists. An Illinois recruit.
Kayla Wisniewski, Wauconda, senior
One of the most decorated players from Lake County, she transformed the Bulldogs’ program and remade the team as a state power. She scored 18 goals and added six assists in just 13 games. A three-time All-State Team selection, Wisniewski scored 78 career goals and administered a school record 38 assists. The IUPU-Ft. Wayne recruit led the Bulldogs to a 37-3-2 record and back-to-back Class AA sectional finals in her junior and senior seasons.
2018 Girls All-State Team
By Patrick Z. McGavin (introduction, player profiles, reporting)
and Steve Nemeth (reporting, research and statistical data)
The third time's most certainly charmed -- for all sides.
In the spring of 2016, Chicagoland Soccer launched its first high school All-State Team designed to recognize the achievement, talent and depth of the best prep players in Illinois. The wealth of notable players made it a particularly daunting task.
With this year’s third edition, the same structural challenge remains as does a nagging problem -- there are simply more good players than available slots.
The best teams from Illinois compare favorably with any other state or region in the country. Last year's Class 3A state champion Barrington finished atop the national standings of polls conducted by Top Drawer Soccer and USA Today/NSCAA.
Despite beating the previous no. 1 St. Charles North and no. 2-nationally ranked New Trier en route to its second-consecutive state championship this season, Barrington was slotted second nationally in the final TDS girls poll of 2018.
Besides Barrington, New Trier and St. Charles went three and four in the national poll. Confoundingly, third place Class 3A finisher Naperville North was placed at no. 18. In Top Drawer’s Midwestern rankings, four of the top five and six of the top eight programs came from Chicagoland.
That is the context and backdrop.
The Chicagoland Soccer All-State Team is composed of 121 total players, effectively 11 teams of 11 players. We strived to make this a merit-based team. Just as the best movies tend to be made by the most talented directors or the best novels are written by the most accomplished writers, the All-State team reiterates the best programs.
Chicagoland Soccer sought input from coaches, culled information from media reports and used evaluations from its contributors. Coaches were free to nominate as many players as they wished. The only criteria for eligibility was competing for an Illinois high school varsity team. The final product features players from 75 high schools throughout the state.
Statistics were very important in determining the case of each individual player, though those numbers were framed within the context of individual skill and impact, team achievement, quality of competition and strength of schedule.
There are many other accomplished and promising players in the state. Seniors who did not make the All-State Team may be listed as Chicagoland Soccer Special Mention honorees. This is the most extensive list we have undertaken so far: 182 members from the Class of 2018 from 118 schools state-wide are on the roster.
Underclassmen who were considered for this team or have future all-state potential are posted on the Chicagoland Soccer All-State Watch List. This grouping of the classes of 2019, 2020 and 2021 is 277 strong from 148 high schools.
Players are grouped by four positions: goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders and forwards. They are listed alphabetically.
All told, 572 student-athletes are recognized on our Chicagoland Soccer award lists.
Congratulations to our honorees.
Keepers
Maggie Avery, Loyola, senior
A three-time All-State Team selection, she posted 14 shutouts against an elite schedule and helped lead the Ramblers to a 15-game unbeaten streak punctuated by an appearance in a Class 3A sectional final. Avery combines power and anticipation with excellent balance and vision. Santa Clara recruit.
Faith Davies, Glenbard East, senior
One of the most versatile athletes in the state, she posted 15 shutouts and conceded just nine goals in 24 games for a .375 goals-against average. She also played meaningful minutes as a midfielder and defender, where she scored two goals and added an assist for a Class 3A sectional qualifier. Repeat selection. Headed to Illinois-Chicago.
Meghan Dwyer, New Trier, junior
In her first year as a starter, she emerged as the Trevians’ next great keeper, an athletic and aggressive talent who allowed just nine goals in 22 games for a 0.409 goals-against average for the Class 3A state runner-up. She posted 16 shutouts.
Maddie Hausmann, Naperville North, senior
Made a spectacular return to high school after playing club. Physical and athletic, she posted 18 shutouts and conceded just 15 goals in 29 games (.517 GAA) for a nationally-rated power that finished third in Class 3A. Loyola recruit.
Anna Johnston, Saint Viator, senior
A dynamic and rangy talent, she posted 17 shutouts and keyed the Lions’ impressive run to the Class AA state championship game. Allowed just 18 goals in 26 games for a 0.692 goals-against average for the state runner-up. New Hampshire recruit.
Mercedes King, Triad, senior
A year after leading the Knights to a Class AA state championship in 2017, King constructed another superb year with her combination of speed, reaction and quickness. Playing more than 1,500 minutes, she posted nine shutouts and surrendered just nine goals for a 0.48 goals-against average for a sectional finalist.
Bekah Nielsen, Normal West, junior
She revealed athleticism, grace and skill in both the field and protecting the goal. Nielsen recorded 151 saves in posting 15 shutouts for the Wildcats, who finished fourth in Class AA. She allowed just 18 goals in 27 games for a 0.67 goals against average. She blocked four penalty kicks and also was the team’s free kick specialist.
Bailey Redden, Belleville West, senior
A repeat selection, Redden demonstrated skill and toughness in recording 13 shutouts and leading the Maroons to the first supersectional appearance in program history. She improved on her junior year totals to surrender a sharp 0.63 goals-against average against top-flight competition. Southeast Missouri State recruit.
Jillian Rejczyk, Wauconda, senior
She concluded a remarkable career with a school record of 31-career shutouts. Rejczyk utilized quickness, reaction and athleticism to superb ends, posting 16 shutouts and allowing just six goals in 20 games (0.3 goals-against average) for a two-time Class AA sectional finalist. Trine University recruit.
Sam Schmitz, Barrington, senior
She contains multitudes -- brains, talent, a flair for the dramatic and a level of accomplishment that is almost unmatched. The Chicagoland Soccer Player of the Year powered the Fillies to back-to-back Class 3A state championships by negating New Trier’s great offensive talent in signature shootouts. Helped Barrington defeat three top-five teams in the country -- St. Charles North, Naperville North and New Trier -- in five days. Two-time Chicagoland Soccer MVP of the Match in state title game. Repeat selection. Harvard recruit.
Monica Wilhelm, Antioch, senior
Two-time selection combines a physical style and high skill level in registering 9.5 shutouts and allowing 20 goals. A four-year starter, she posted 39.5 career shutouts. Iowa recruit is the first female Big Ten athlete in history of school.
Defenders
Sarah Avery, Naperville Central, senior
Transcends statistics with her command of the game and ability to nullify the opposition's offense with her range, physical ability and high skill level. She is incredible at winning 50-50 balls and clearing threats off the line. Repeat selection. Northern Illinois recruit also had goal and two assists for Class 3A sectional qualifier.
Christine Batliner, Barrington, junior
A nervy and dynamic talent, she brought athleticism and skill to a gifted backline that posted 15 shutouts for the back-to-back Class 3A state champions. She also flashed great offensive skill with three goals and nine assists.
Riley Burns, Loyola, senior
Showed toughness and resilience in returning from a foot injury that knocked out her entire junior year. Led a superb Ramblers’ backline that posted 13 shutouts. She also played in the midfield to help offset some injuries and lead Loyola to a Class 3A sectional final. The last of three players from a legendary family, she is following her older sisters to play at Iowa.
Alondra Carranza, St. Charles East, sophomore
A physical player with a high-motor, speed and power, Carranza combines excellent technique with a disruptive style and a penchant for being in the middle of the action. Contributed to the offense with a goal and two assists. Helped the Saints record 11 shutouts.
Marta Cholewa, Fremd, senior
As a competitor she stands virtually alone. Cholewa is a tough, relentless and unyielding two-way talent. A Grand Valley State recruit, she made a spirited and emotional return from a torn ACL to energize a young Vikings team. Shifting fluidly from the back to the middle, she showed poise, vision and an uncommon feel for the game.
Katie Hansen, Glenbard East, senior
A two-time selection, Hansen established a new benchmark of excellence. A starter on the Rams’ Class 3A third place team in 2016, she combines great technical ability, a high work rate and a feel for the game that helped Glenbard East qualify for the sectional semifinals. A key piece of a skilled, athletic backline that allowed just 15 goals in 24 games. Montana recruit.
Jess Hieb, Normal West, junior
A superb talent, the rangy and athletic combo defender/midfielder excelled playing multiple positions for the Wildcats. She scored 17 goals and contributed 12 assists for the Class AA fourth place team and helped her side post shutouts in five state tournament games.
Caroline Iserloth, New Trier, senior
A lockdown defender, she concluded a seemingly unsurpassable career. Iserloth started in four Class 3A state title games, winning two championships and finishing as the runner-up twice. Part of a suffocating defense that registered 18 shutouts and allowed just nine goals in 27 games. Repeat selection.
Leland Keller, Lake Forest, junior
Kept her team afloat after the Scouts lost nine Division I recruits to club soccer. A converted midfielder, she shifted to the back and solidified Lake Forest’s defense with toughness, size and speed. Scored two goals and added three assists.
Jamie Kwon, Warren, senior
The Winona State recruit Kwon played with poise and talent. The three-year starter brought a toughness, skill and high IQ to a young Blue Devils squad that showed tremendous progress while fusing a talented group of underclassmen with established talent.
Rachael Lutter, Kaneland, junior
A breathtaking talent and one of the state’s most versatile players, she played every field position. “I was ready to play her in the goal if we needed,” Kaneland coach Scott Parillo said. Scored 17 goals and added nine assists. Cincinnati recruit.
Francesca Marconi, Downers Grove North, senior
Great competitor and intense performer, she helped elevate the Trojans to uncharted territory with a bracing and physical style that made Downers Grove North’s back third virtually impenetrable. She keyed a backline that posted 11 shutouts and reached a Class 3A supersectional for the second-straight year. Started on Class 3A fourth place team in 2017.
Jennifer Masello, Downers Grove South, senior
The leader and top talent on a sharp and technically accomplished backline, Masello played with intensity and fearlessness in powering a defense that posted nine shutouts. She led the Mustangs to a share of the Gold Division title of the West Suburban Conference and a Class 3A regional championship.
Erin McCarthy, Neuqua Valley, junior
Emerged as a breakthrough talent for one of the state’s best teams. She excelled as a two-way talent who scored four goals and anchored an athletic and imposing defense that posted 11 shutouts and conceded just 13 goals in 20 games. Named all-tournament at Naperville Invitational. Lipscomb recruit.
Mia Milazzo, Andrew, defender, senior
A significant reason the Thunderbolts captured the first state trophy in program history. Milazzo made an impact on both sides; she was typically assigned to shadow the opposition’s top player while helping unlock Andrew’s explosive offense. Despite missing four games, she contributed five goals and seven assists for Class 3A fourth place team. Missouri-St. Louis recruit.
Jenna Nichols, Batavia, junior
A highly disruptive and aggressive defender, Nichols brought a fierce and explosive temperament to a quality defense that recorded nine shutouts and averaged fewer than one goal allowed per game for a Class 3A regional finalist.
Sydney Parker, New Trier, senior
In a word, extraordinary. A scintillating two-way talent, Parker is a three-time All-State Team selection and played in three-consecutive Class 3A state title games. She was the centerpiece of an airtight defense that allowed just nine goals in 27 games. Almost unbeatable in the air, she showed a remarkable ability to finish on set pieces. Contributed 17 goals and three assists. DePaul recruit.
Madi Rosen, Barrington, junior
A two-year starter, she brought toughness, experience and savvy to a talented backline that came of age in the state tournament. She played with passion and high intensity and proved a crucial weapon as a facilitator who helped initiate the Fillies’ build-up with 10 assists for the now two-time defending Class 3A state champion.
Alyssa Siebers, Naperville North, senior
Formed a devastating combination with her twin sister Jessica in an athletic and overwhelming Naperville North defense that registered a stunning 37 shutouts against elite national caliber competition over the past two seasons. She added two goals and one assist. Illinois State signee.
Jessica Siebers, Naperville North, senior
Like her twin sister, Jessica is an athletic defender who acts like a piece of human velcro and annihilated the point of attack for the opposition. A Illinois State recruit, she was part of defensive force that yielded just two goals in seven state tournament games for the Class 3A third place finisher.
Lauren Stibich, Fenwick, senior
An Illinois recruit, she sacrificed her personal statistics by moving from her preferred attacking position to anchor the Friars’ backline. A gifted and explosive talent, Stibich scored five goals and added four assists in helping Fenwick post 11 shutouts and qualify for a Class AA sectional final where the Friars fell to eventual state champ St. Francis.
Caitlin Strong, Jacobs, senior
The gifted and versatile talent started her seamless transition to the back a season after she set the school’s freshman varsity scoring record in 2015. Saint Leo recruit showed toughness, resolve and a great sense of position in helping the Golden Eagles capture a PepsiCo bracket and reach a Class 3A sectional semifinal.
Lily Sykes, Carmel, senior
The learned and high-IQ defender mastered all angles in helping the Corsairs to their first sectional title as a Class 3A program. She was the emotional leader of a talented backline that posted 11 shutouts. As a freshman, she played situational minutes as a midfielder and defender on Class AA state championship team in 2015. Finished with three assists.
Cece Wahlberg, St. Charles North, junior
Stepped out of the considerable shadow of her star sister Gia and demonstrated talent, skill and an electrifying presence in helping the North Stars to an undefeated regular season and a stint at the top of one national ranking. She was an integral piece of superb defense that posted 11 shutouts. Converted midfielder had two goals and four assists.
Midfielders
Jacqueline Aleman, Lemont, senior
Four-year starter was part of a memorable class that won three state trophies. Proves the adage that skills and talent transcend size. She demonstrated toughness, vision and balance. Aleman often came back to aid the defense but still facilitated the Indians’ attack with nine goals and 19 assists for 25-win, Class AA third place team. Wisconsin-Stevens Point recruit.
Alyssa Bombacino, Neuqua Valley, senior
One of the top players from her talent-rich area, the Marquette recruit and two-time All-State Team selection is an electrifying talent in space and an elite finisher. Bombacino scored 12 goals and added six assists for the Class 3A sectional finalist. She ended her decorated career at third on the Wildcats’ all-time scoring list with 46 goals.
Katelynn Buescher, Naperville North, senior
Another scintillating and cool presence, Buescher brought flair and verve as a two-way talent who both controlled the ball and finished with authority. A two-time All-State Team selection, she scored 14 goals and created seven assists. The Illinois recruit, Buescher was at her best on the biggest stage as evidenced by her game-winning goal in the supersectional.
Jolie Carl, Highland Park, junior
One of the bright young talents on the North Shore, she improved from her breakout sophomore year to score 14 goals and distribute seven assists for the Giants. Smart, quick and explosive, she is very inventive at finding angles and is excellent in space.
Barbie Castellanos, West Chicago, junior
Emerged as a star and one of the best players ever produced by her school. Castellanos showcased speed, quickness and a sense for the game that was beautiful to watch. Despite commanding all kinds of attention from defenses, she scored 20 goals and distributed 16 assists for the Wildcats.
Jenna Dombrowski, Bartlett, senior
A physical and powerful player, she is fast with the ball and shows an excellent first touch. The repeat All-State Team selection scored 14 goals and contributed 10 assists in leading the Hawks to back-to-back shares of the conference championship. Ball State recruit is first player in school history to earn Upstate Eight all-conference recognition all four years.
Jenna Dominguez, Geneva, junior
She expanded on her breakout sophomore campaign to establish herself as one of the bright offensive talents in her class. Industrious with the ball, quick and blessed with vision and great closing speed, she scored 24 goals and distributed four assists for the Vikings. Repeat selection.
Olivia Dreyer, Notre Dame (Quincy), senior
She punctuated a great career by scoring 25 goals and distributing 13 assists in leading the Irish to back-to-back Class A state championships. Explosive and physical with the ball, Dreyer was at her best in the big games. She scored two goals against Althoff in a state semifinal and added a goal in the state championship victory over North Shore Country Day. A McKendree University signee.
Edith Edwards-Mizel, North Shore Country Day, sophomore
A whirling dervish of a talent, the explosive Edwards-Mizel was a thrilling and breakout talent in her class who propelled the Raiders to unprecedented heights. Her dramatic goal in the 92nd minute punched North Shore’s ticket to Class A title game. She scored 28 goals and distributed 21 assists.
Sydney Gratz, Geneva, junior
Named as her team’s most most valuable player by her coach and teammates, the talented and skilled Gratz put together another exemplary and diversified year. She scored 11 goals and recording a team-best 13 assists against top-notch competition. Repeat selection is an American University recruit.
Michayla Herr, Barrington, senior
A tremendous talent who made the leap from supporting player to leading role in powering the Fillies to back-to-back Class 3A state championships. The three-year starter played a crucial role in giving the talented next generation of Barrington talent a helping hand as they grew and developed this season. She starred as a scorer (13 goals) and creator (10 assists). Scored game-winner in 76th minute against Naperville North in state semifinal. A Wisconsin recruit.
Olivia Hurt, IC Catholic Prep, junior
Hurt seized the spotlight with the graduation of Tessa Langan and proved her breakout sophomore year was no no fluke. She expanded her role and diversified her game in demonstrating a brazen talent for getting to the goal and finishing. Hurt scored 31 goals and contributed 27 assists in leading the Knights to a Class A supersectional.
Lily Keiderling, Latin, senior
A remarkably poised and alert player, she combined a savvy feel for the game with an ability to anticipate action and movement in a way that felt uncanny. She scored 18 goals and distributed 17 assists for a 20-2-0 Class AA power and sectional qualifier that won both a PepsiCo bracket and the Chicago Cup.
Malori Killoren, Deerfield, sophomore
“The most talented player I have ever coached,” Deerfield coach Rich Grady said. She and New Trier standout Emma Weaver are the state’s top sophomores. Killoren scored 24 goals and distributed 11 assists for the Central Suburban North co-champs and Class AA sectional qualifier. She is capable of playing anywhere on the field and impacting the game in multiple ways. An elite and breathtaking talent.
Jordan King, Burlington Central, senior
She punctuated a remarkable two-year run by scoring 25 goals and distributing 18 assists. Living up to her name, she played a pivotal role in establishing the Rockets as a formidable program that defeated Class 3A state champion Barrington during group play of the Naperville Invitational. A two-time All-State Team selection, Miami (Ohio) recruit amassed 46 goals and 33 assists the last two years.
Zoey Kollhoff, Burlington Central, sophomore
Another breakout talent, Kollhoff parlayed a thrilling freshman year and showed ever greater levels of talent, finishing ability and creativity in open space. Making a great complement to King, she doubled her impressive goal title of last season with 30 goals and added 11 assists for the Class AA supersectional qualifier.
Mia Lisanti, Young, sophomore
She established herself as one of the bright young talents in the city. Lisanti utilizes speed, separation ability and a cool and savvy style that highlights her athleticism. She scored seven goals and added seven assists in helping the Dolphins reach the Chicago Public League city title game.
Audrey Marsaglia, Normal West, junior
She emerged as one of the best young talents in Central Illinois. Leading the Wildcats in shot attempts and goals, the dynamic and resourceful creator offset her lack of size with her shotmaking and creativity in getting to the goal. She scored 22 times and created five assists for the Class AA fourth place team.
Payton McDonnell, Saint Viator, junior
A prominent reason for the Lions’ return to the state finals, McDonnell plays with skill, style and a heady mixture of tenacity and drive. She showed superb accuracy and a flair for making decisive plays demonstrated by three-consecutive game-winners in the state tournament and the semifinal goal that propelled Saint Viator to the Class AA state championship game. Scored 16 goals and recorded nine assists.
Eileen Murphy, Lyons, junior
A physical and powerful target up-top, she used her size brilliantly to create pressure and play the ball off to the other Lions’ shooters. A repeat All-State Team selection, she scored eight goals and recorded seven assists for an undefeated conference champion and Class 3A sectional finalist.
Megan Nemec, Andrew, junior
A skilled passer, creator and finisher, Nemec powered the Thunderbolts toward the unprecedented with her precision touch and superb vision. She scored 13 goals and administered a team-high nine assists for Andrew, whose fourth place Class 3A finish earned the first state trophy in program history.
Anissa Nourse, Fenwick, junior
A human highlight reel and whirling dervish of a player, she balanced lightning speed and quickness with the ball with an instinct for scoring and facilitating. Nourse scored 20 goals and contributed three assists as the most feared and consistent offensive threat on a Class AA sectional finalist. Led team to championship game of Windy City Ram Classic and a PepsiCo bracket title.
Riley O’Brien, West Aurora, senior
The Blackhawks suffered a slow start before O’Brien orchestrated a thrilling and deeply satisfying finish with an 8-3-0 record down the stretch. With a tantalizing mixture of unselfish and skilled play, she is an elite creator who plays with assurance and grace. She scored five goals and contributed 17 assists. An Illinois State recruit.
Erin Peck, St. Francis, senior
A model of consistency and efficiency, Peck is almost unobtrusive, rarely calling attention to herself though always making the right play, whether it is a first touch or an explosive leap to the ball. She scored 11 goals and created 10 assists for the Class AA state champion. As a sophomore she also started on the fourth place team in 2016. Two-time All-State Team selection.
Ella Richards, St. Ignatius, freshman
A precocious talent, Richards emerged fully formed as a unique and defining talent who played well beyond her years. She scored 29 goals and contributed 14 assists in leading the Wolfpack to a Class AA sectional final. Richards proved a lethal and breakout talent who symbolizes the emergence of a top new city program.
Hailey Rydberg, St. Charles North, senior
An intense and deeply skilled competitor, Rydberg plays with a furiousness and deep sense of purpose. With Gia Wahlberg she formed one of the most devastating 1-2 punches in the country. A three-time All-State Team selection, the Iowa recruit combined blazing speed and a fearsome touch that made her virtually unstoppable. She scored 22 goals and recorded 15 assists to contribute to the North Stars unbeaten 21-win regular season and back-to-back supersectional appearances.
Giselle Sahagun, Mundelein, junior
The new talent invigorated the Mustangs’ attack with her possessive style and ability to finish in tight spaces. She scored 14 goals and contributed two assists as Mundelein captured the first undisputed North Suburban Conference title in program history.
Izzy Schmitt, St. Thomas More, senior
The four-year starter ended her career as a prolific scorer for a historically strong Class A program. She scored 17 goals and distributed a Champaign-area best 26 assists for a supersectional qualifier. Started as a freshman on fourth place Class A team.
Kelly Stayart, Cary-Grove, senior
An athletic and creative shotmaker, she was one of the best players in the Fox Valley. Blessed with ideal speed, size and vision, Stayart scored 15 goals and distributed 11 assists on a Class 3A sectional finalist that took Barrington to the brink before losing in a penalty shootout.
Abby Swanson, Downers Grove North, senior
Completed arguably the finest two-year run in the history of the program. The explosive and creative scorer experienced a scoring binge down the stretch in fueling the Trojans’ late-season surge. She scored 22 goals and administered eight assists for a Class 3A supersectional qualifier. Repeat selection and Loyola recruit, she led Trojans to fourth place finish last year.
Sarah Wagner, Springfield, senior
An elite playmaker, she engineered the Senators’ attack with a peerless sense of balance and creativity. Wagner showed a fantastic blend of anticipation and response to the moment. She scored seven goals and recorded 24 assists for a Class AA sectional finalist.
Alexandria Wawrzyniak, Round Lake, junior
A two-time All-State Team selection, Wawrzyniak expanded on the promise of her early years with a breakout season in leading the the Panthers to a school record for wins in a season. Bolstered by some very promising young talent, Wawrzyniak maximized her creative shotmaking and superb grasp of the game. She scored 17 goals and posted 20 assists.
Emma Weaver, New Trier, sophomore
An elite talent, Weaver made a daring bid as a top-10 national age player with another exhilarating display of creativity, vision, athleticism and cool under fire. She scored 15 goals and registered 22 assists for Class 3A state runner-up New Trier. Villanova commit scored three goals in the supersectional victory and had a goal and two assists in the state semifinal. Repeat selection.
Caroline Zimmer, St. Francis, junior
Another of the Spartans’ explosive scoring talents who plays with a cool intensity, Zimmer scored 14 goals and distributed seven assists for the Class AA state champion. She possesses excellent vision, balance and a feel for the game. Scored the game-winner in state semifinal victory over Lemont.
Forwards (52)
Zenaya Barnes, Carmel, junior
She made a spectacular entrance into high school soccer after a club sabbatical and time spent recovering from an ACL tear. Explosive and creative, Barnes scored a team-best 15 goals and posted six assists for the Class 3A supersectional qualifier. Had three goals in regional championship victory over Mundelein.
Nyah Bejarano, Eisenhower, junior
An explosive talent who hit the rare century mark, Berjarano totaled a cool 100 points with her stunning combination of 36 goals and 28 assists. She was the lynchpin of the Cardinals’ attack, evidenced by the rise of sophomore Anese English (50 goals).
Karli Boyd, Providence, senior
Blending a physical style with ingenuity and intelligence, Boyd used her scoring prowess to lead the Celtics to a deep state tournament run. She brought size, skill and speed in scoring 26 goals and created seven assists in leading the Celtics to a Class AA sectional final.
Grace Brauer, Belleville East, senior
A two-time selection, Brauer ended her career as one of the best players this decade from Southern Illinois. She combines strong athleticism with an intuitive feel for the game and scored 24 goals and added four assists. An Xavier recruit.
Maggie Brett, Loyola, junior
A dynamic and lyrical player, she fuses intelligence and creativity to startling effect. The repeat selection powered the Ramblers’ attack with 19 goals and significantly expanded her playmaking role with 12 assists. Brett powered the GCAC Red Division champion and Class 3A sectional finalist.
Kristin Brousseau, Lake Zurich, senior
An athletic finisher with a brilliant scoring touch and explosive ability to separate in space, Brousseau scored 22 goals and added eight assists in just 17 games. The repeat choice combined power and a velvet touch with superb vision. A Missouri recruit.
Mimi Camacho, Glenbard East, senior
A creative and dynamic finisher in space, Camacho combines power, speed and excellent accuracy. She was part of the Rams’ historic 2016 team that finished third in Class 3A. Expanding and diversifying her game, she scored 23 goals and distributed 10 assists for the sectional semifinalist.
Aly Crum, Rochester, senior
She made her name two years ago as an intriguing young talent on the Rockets’ Class AA state championship team. An electric scorer and deeply skilled on set pieces, Crum scored 20 goals and contributed seven assists. A North Central College recruit.
Lauren Davis, Grayslake North, senior
A solid and heady player who made a pronounced leap this year, Davis is a big, fast and powerful attacking player with a sharp command that exposes a defense’s vulnerabilities. She scored 28 goals and created 11 assists for a Class AA regional finalist. A Bethel University recruit.
Gracey DiBiase, Batavia, senior
“Her tactical flexibility is a dream for any coach,” Batavia coach Mark Gianfrancesco said. She moved from center back to a featured offensive role and ignited the Bulldogs’ attack with eight goals and 11 assists. A natural left-footer, she was brilliant on set pieces and free kicks.
Amanda DiNardo, Joliet West, senior
Playing high school after time spent in club, DiNardo demonstrated a ruthless and aggressive style of play that proved virtually unstoppable in open space. She scored 39 goals and added four assists for the Tigers. A Southern Illinois-Edwardsville recruit.
Shaina Dudas, Naperville North, senior
An integral player in the powerhouse program, the three-year starter diversified her offensive game and helped the Huskies qualify for their first state finals since 2012. She scored 11 goals and recorded a team-best 13 assists for the conference champion and Class 3A third place finisher. Illinois State recruit.
Grace Dunaway Lane, junior
On a diversified team that shared the wealth offensively, the athletic and electric talent shined the brightest for the city powerhouse. After a breakout sophomore campaign of scoring 19 goals, Dunaway sacrificed her scoring to deflect attention and balance the attack. She scored eight goals and added four assists for the four-time defending city champion. Repeat selection.
Erin Flynn, Benet, senior
A smooth and assured talent, she played under control and and displayed superb vision, balance and presence. Flynn scored nine goals and added 13 assists for a Class AA supersectional qualifier that posted a school record 20 victories.
Nicolette Gossage, Lincoln-Way Central, junior
One of the best players in the Southland, she plays with a passion and directness that powered the Knights’ attack. Dangerous from multiple points on the field and superb on set pieces, Gossage scored 22 goals and added six assists for a Class 3A regional finalist.
Saydie Holland, Sycamore, junior
A ferociously talented and creative scorer, Holland diversified her game further and showcased ever greater command of her gifts in deepening her skills as a spectacular two-way talent. Holland scored 23 goals and posted 19 assists for a 20-3-0 Class AA power that reached a sectional title game. Three All-State Team selection has 77 goals in her prep career.
Meredith Johnson-Monfort, Mahomet-Seymour, senior
This forceful and blinding talent punctuated her standout career with a prodigious scoring season. Utilizing speed, quickness and size, Johnson-Monfort scored 43 goals and added 13 assists for a 21-win Class AA power. An Illinois recruit, she finished her career with 117 goals and 44 assists.
Kennedy Jones, Columbia, junior
Made her case as the best small school player in the state as a thrilling and audacious scorer who smashed record books with 51 goals, 19 assists and 121 points for a Class A sectional finalist that was a top-ranked school in the final Illinois 10 rankings.
Nicole Kaspi, New Trier, senior
Just call her the “belle of the ball.” A graceful, passionate and vivacious talent who plays with great flair and brings a great sense of theater to the game, the remarkable talent punctuated a storied career with 18 goals and six assists. Played in four-consecutive state championships, winning two titles and finished as runner-up twice. Scored the Trevians’ goal against Barrington in state championship. Repeat selection and University of Chicago recruit.
Sam Koppers, Andrew, junior
Emerged as a gifted creator and skilled scoring threat, Koppers scored a team-high 20 goals and distributed four assists in powering the Thunderbirds to their first trophy in program history wth a fourth place finish in Class 3A.
Allie Kucera, Riverside-Brookfield, senior
Back from a sabbatical playing club, she turned her final year into a thrilling showcase of size, speed, creativity and unselfishness. Kucera scored 26 goals and contributed 20 assists for the Bulldogs. She finished with 83 career goals in three years. A Dayton recruit.
Bella Lestina, Lyons, senior
A thrilling talent who demonstrated poise, quickness and a command of the game, Lestina scored a team-high 15 goals and added 10 assists for an undefeated conference champion and Class 3A sectional finalist. A repeat selection and Loyola recruit.
Samantha Linn, Deerfield, senior
Made the leap to become an exceptional player who helped transform the Warriors into the most potent scoring team in school history. Linn’s speed, vision and creativity unlocked the complete potential of the Warriors’ attack. She recorded a school-record 26 assists and scored six goals for a conference co-champion and Class AA sectional qualifier.
Hannah Martin, Naperville North, sophomore
The next superstar from the Huskies’ vaunted program, the tall (5-11), rangy and athletic attacker emerged as a force to be reckoned with. Her second half performance put Naperville North at a different level. Martin scored a team-best 15 goals and added five assists for the Class 3A third place, nationally-rated power.
Taylor Mathenia, Belleville West, senior
A composed and skilled talent, Mathenia showed quickness and a terrific first touch in leading the Maroons to the deepest state tournament run in program history. She scored 20 goals and added four assists for a Class 3A supersectional qualifier. Southeast Missouri State recruit.
Stephanie Mazurek, Conant, junior
A prized young talent who fused everything into a dominant package, she emerged as a breathless and thrilling player who showed great instinct for the goal and also the ability to play off and create for others. She more than doubled her sophomore output with 22 goals and nine assists for a Class 3A sectional finalist.
Brinley McVeigh, Saint Viator, senior
Energized the Lions’ attack and propelled Saint Viator to its first state championship appearance in 13 years. After she was shifted up-top, she blitzed the opposition with 17 goals in the final 10 games that culminated with a second place Class AA state finish. Finished the season with 19 goals and six assists.
Kennedy Metzger, Waubonsie Valley, senior
Fighting off constant double teams, her goal total slipped from a year ago. The Ball State recruit, flashed a tremendous skill set and showcased a dangerous shot and an innate feel for breaking down the defense. Metzger scored 13 goals and added eight assists against top-notch competition.
Paige Miller, Wheaton Warrenville South, junior
A three-year starter, Miller punched her game to another level with her exhilarating display of touch, skill and power. She scored 13 goals and created 11 assists in leading her team to a runner-up finish in the top Pepsi bracket and a regional final.
Rachel Moore, Antioch, senior
A dynamic, instinctive and highly skilled creator and scorer, Moore shattered the single-season scoring records at her school with 34 goals and added 15 assists for a Class AA regional finalist. Had four goals in a regional semifinal. Ended her career with 74 goals. A repeat selection and College of Lake County recruit.
Ally Mussallem, Stagg, senior
In making a spectacular return from club soccer, Mussallem revealed positional flexibility, speed and size in powering the Chargers. She scored 15 goals and added nine assists for a Class 3A sectional finalist. A Purdue recruit, Mussallem was named Most Valuable Player after leading her team to the Windy City Ram Classic title.
Kendra Pasquale, St. Francis, senior
She shook off an injury-marred junior year to produce a highlight-filled final year. Revealing an uncommon blend of speed, quickness and competitive fury, Pasquale scored 19 goals and added 10 assists for the Class AA state champions. Scored goal and added an assist in a dominant state title game performance. Three-time all-state selection and Illinois recruit.
Hannah Peters, Notre Dame (Quincy), senior
A formidable talent and superb athlete, she anchored a skilled and diverse forward attack with her lethal combination as a scorer and facilitator. She scored 20 goals and recorded 13 assists for the back-to-back Class A state champions. Ended career with two goals and two assists in state title victory over North Shore Country Day.
Ashley Prell, Barrington, junior
She expanded her game to another level and solidified her standing as the state’s top junior with a remarkable state tournament performance. In showing a stunning combination of speed, power and competitive fire, she scored 22 goals and added 11 assists for the two-time Class 3A state champion. Illinois scored team’s only goal in regulation and the deciding PK in the Fillies’ shootout state title win over New Trier. A repeat selection.
Sophie Putrim, Young, senior
A lithe and electrifying player in space, Putrim demonstrated a superb all-around game as a scorer, creator and offensive catalyst. She scored a team-high 13 goals and added six assists in leading her team to a runner-up finish in the city tournament.
Stephanie Ramsay, Loyola, senior
A formidable shooter who is accurate from distance, Ramsay concluded her stellar career by scoring 14 goals and contributing six assists for the GCAC Red champion and Class 3A sectional finalist that lost only to Barrington and New Trier. A three-time All-State Team selection. Carnegie Mellon signee.
Maeve Riordan, Metea Valley, senior
A high-energy player who is poised and composed in the box, she scored 10 goals and added nine assists against elite competition. An Illinois recruit, she powered the Mustangs to their fifth-consecutive sectional appearance.
Hannah Rittenhouse, St. Francis, junior
Put everything together in making the transition from a highly promising player to a monumental talent who plays at her best in big games, Rittenhouse delivered a title game for the ages with a state record-tying three goals with an assist in the Class AA final win. Repeat selection scored 25 goals and added eight assists. Set to play at Iowa.
Mairead Ruane, Lemont, senior
At once prolific and unselfish, Ruane punctuated her excellent career by scoring 23 goals and contributing 20 assists for the Class AA third place team. She ended her career with 95 goals. As impressive, she surrendered her offensive role to shift to the back for the state tournament. A repeat selection, Ruane was a great specialist on free and corner kicks.
Rose Stackhouse, St. Charles East, senior
Responding to the loss of star classmate Chantel Carranza, Stackhouse elevated her performance and helped keep the Saints successful against one of the state’s toughest schedules. Exhibiting accuracy, touch and athleticism, Stackhouse scored 13 goals and added two assists for a sectional semifinalist. St. Mary's (Ind.) recruit.
Makayla Stadler, Glenbrook South, junior
One of the top players in her class, Stadler offers an intoxicating mixture of speed, creativity, touch and presence. The three-time All-State Team selection scored 16 goals and added seven assists for a Class 3A sectional semifinalist. Villanova recruit led team to championship of upset win of Lou Malnati’s Deep Dish Classic.
Caelyn Steffens, Normal, senior
A fantastic two-sport athlete, Steffens rates as one of the top players in the loaded Central Illinois region. A physical and intuitive talent, she scored 30 goals and added 18 assists for a powerhouse program that reached a Class 3A sectional final and held the top spot of the Illinois 10 state rankings. Wisconsin-Platteville recruit.
Myah Strokosch, Mundelein, senior
A terrific and resourceful player, Strokosch displayed a fantastic feel for the game with her adroit and dangerous use of through-balls. The heady finisher has an instinctive flair for creating scoring chances. She scored seven goals and added a team-best 10 assists in leading the Mustangs to their first unshared North Suburban Conference title. Set to play at Wisconsin-Parkside.
Bridget Taylor, Notre Dame (Peoria), sophomore
Solidified her status as a top-five player in her class, Taylor exhibited a great all-around game by being dangerous in space and highly creative with the ball. Her goal totals from her fantastic freshman year were down but her assists zoomed. She scored 22 goals and added 18 helpers for a Class AA supersectional qualifier. A repeat selection.
Erin Teevans, Wheaton Academy, senior
Proving decisively that skill, moxie and talent offsets a lack of size, Teevans finished her superb career as a dynamic all-around scorer and creator. Quick and explosive, she scored 28 goals and distributed 16 assists for a Class AA sectional qualifier. A three-time All-State Team selection, Teevans played on a Class A state title team in 2016 and finished as a state runner-up in Class AA last year. Taylor recruit
Tina Teik, Barrington, sophomore
A gazelle in the open field, this fluid and graceful talent emerged as a top five player in her class. Half of the Broncos overpowering combination with Ashley Prell, Teik scored 11 goals and added 10 assists for the repeat Class 3A state champions. Yale recruit has elite combination of size, speed, touch and accuracy.
Victoria Thornton, Plainfield North, senior
A fantastic athlete who combines great length, speed and finishing ability, Thornton was a punishing attacking talent who put constant pressure on the opposition. She scored 15 goals and had nine assists for a conference co-champion and Class 3A regional finalist. Howard recruit.
Gia Wahlberg, St. Charles North, senior
One of the most feared players in the state, Wahlberg was the fulcrum of a devastating offensive attack. The three-time All-State Team selection exhibited athleticism, power and speed in scoring 22 goals and creating 15 assists for a nationally-rated powerhouse that reached a Class 3A supersectional. A Michigan State recruit.
Faith Washko, Sacred Heart-Griffin, sophomore
Emerged as a breakout talent and one of the best prospects in her class, Washko is an electric, high-motor athlete who ignited the Cyclones’ attack. Scored 25 goals and added eight assists for a Class AA sectional finalist.
Liesl Whitener, Althoff, sophomore
Breaking onto a wider platform with elan and grace, Whitener illustrated her significant talents as an explosive finisher and a keen student of the game. She played graciously for herself and teammates. Whitener scored 33 goals and added 18 assists for the Class A third place Crusaders.
Peyton Willie, Yorkville, senior
A heady player who maximized her scoring chances despite facing defenses designed to neutralize her, Willie proved virtually unstoppable in space as an intuitive and skilled finisher in tight quarters. Great on set pieces and in the field of play, Willie scored 44 goals and added four assists. An Illinois recruit.
Kayla Wisniewski, Wauconda, senior
One of the most decorated players from Lake County, she transformed the Bulldogs’ program and remade the team as a state power. She scored 18 goals and added six assists in just 13 games. A three-time All-State Team selection, Wisniewski scored 78 career goals and administered a school record 38 assists. The IUPU-Ft. Wayne recruit led the Bulldogs to a 37-3-2 record and back-to-back Class AA sectional finals in her junior and senior seasons.