Top 100 Freshmen in Women’s College Soccer Postseason Rankings

ByCoach

The college soccer season has come to a close. It’s time to reflect on the standout freshmen who have made a significant impact on their teams. The TopDrawerSoccer postseason freshmen rankings highlight the top 100 first-year players who have defined the season in one way or another.

Leading the way is Notre Dame’s Izzy Engle. Her historic campaign set the tone for an exciting year in women’s college soccer. Let’s dive into the top five freshmen who have truly made their mark.

Izzy Engle: A Season for the Ages

Izzy Engle of Notre Dame had a remarkable freshman season. She finished with 19 goals, the second-highest in the nation and the most by a freshman in a decade. Her unique combination of speed, technique, and elite finishing made her an unstoppable force.

Whether playing at wing-back early in the season or transitioning to striker, Engle’s versatility and goal-scoring prowess were unmatched. This Minnesota native’s performance was nothing short of spectacular.

Key Highlights of Izzy Engle’s Season

  • 19 goals – second in the nation
  • Most goals by a freshman in a decade
  • Played both wing-back and striker

Trinity Armstrong: Dominance at Center Back

North Carolina’s Trinity Armstrong was a defensive powerhouse for the national champions. Her impact was evident, with the team boasting a 19-2 record in games she played and a 3-3 record in the six matches she missed for the U17 World Cup.

Armstrong’s confidence on the ball and precision in tackles made her one of the best defensive freshmen in college soccer history. The Texas native’s campaign was nothing short of dominant.

Trinity Armstrong’s Defensive Impact

  • 19-2 record in games played
  • Missed six games for the U17 World Cup
  • Known for confidence on the ball and measured tackles

Keegan Smith: A Wall in Goal

Arkansas’ Keegan Smith stepped up as a freshman starter and delivered an impressive season. With 11 shutouts and an 84% save percentage, Smith ranked in the top 25 nationally for both categories.

The New York native’s performance was crucial in helping the Razorbacks reach the Sweet Sixteen, where they were eventually knocked out in a penalty shootout. Smith proved to be one of the best goalkeepers in the country, regardless of class.

Keegan Smith’s Goalkeeping Excellence

  • 11 shutouts
  • 84% save percentage
  • Top 25 nationally in both categories

Amalia Villarreal: Stepping Up for Texas

Texas’ Amalia Villarreal played a crucial role in the Longhorns’ success, especially with the injury to the legendary Trinity Byars. Villarreal contributed nine goals and eight assists, helping Texas clinch the SEC tournament title.

The Michigan native’s ability to finish well-worked team moves and set up her teammates showcased her maturity and skill beyond her years.

Amalia Villarreal’s Contributions

  • 9 goals
  • 8 assists
  • Helped Texas win the SEC tournament title

Ginny Lackey: A British Sensation

James Madison’s Ginny Lackey had an outstanding season despite missing the first five games. With 12 goals and 10 assists from just 16 matches, Lackey quickly established herself as one of the top strikers in college soccer.

The British striker’s form was so impressive that she might have claimed the top spot if she had played the entire season.

Ginny Lackey’s Stellar Performance

  • 12 goals in 16 matches
  • 10 assists
  • Missed the first five games of the season

For a comprehensive look at the top 100 freshmen who have defined this college soccer season, visit the TopDrawerSoccer postseason freshmen rankings. These young athletes have shown incredible talent and promise. They have set the stage for exciting careers ahead. As we look back on this season, it’s clear that the future of women’s college soccer is in excellent hands.

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