SHEPHERDSTOWN, W.Va. – Shepherd University head women's soccer coach
Bob Meals announced that eight student-athletes have signed letters-of-intent to play soccer for the Rams in 2026.
"We're excited to welcome the 2026 recruiting class as the newest members of our Ram Fam," Meals said. "As we continue to push for success in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference and beyond, each of these young women brings unique qualities that will strengthen our program. Last fall, our group competed well within demanding schedules, and our team gained valuable experience throughout a competitive season and NCAA D2 playoffs. This class adds depth and talent to our 2026 roster and complements an already strong core of returning players. The future of Shepherd Soccer is very bright, and we're excited for what lies ahead."
2026 Shepherd Women's Soccer Signing Class
Jayden McDonough
Position: Goalkeeper
Hometown: McKinney, Texas
High School: McKinney Boyd High School
Club Team: Steel United - Texas
Academic Honors: National Honor Society
Athletic Honors: 6A North Texas – 2nd Team All District 2026, and Texas – Honorable Mention 2025
Why Shepherd: "I chose Shepherd University because the criminal justice program gives me the perfect blend of hands on forensic science training and small class mentorship, all set in a quaint West Virginia town for its beauty, history, and tight-knit community. It's a place where I can grow academically, compete athletically, and become the best version of myself."
From Coach Meals: "We're excited to welcome Jayden to our goalkeeper group. She's an athletic goalkeeper with strong shot-stopping instincts and comfort in her distribution. Jayden will help elevate the competitiveness of our GK unit and add valuable depth heading into next fall."
Gracie Asare-Dwamenah
Position: Defender/Midfielder
Hometown: Pasadena, Md.
High School: Chesapeake High School
Club Team: Maryland United ECRL
Academic Honors: Principal Honor Roll and Honor Roll
Athletic Honors: Most Improved Player
Why Shepherd: "Shepherd University stood out to me because of its welcoming atmosphere and commitment to student success. I believe the University provides the tight environment for me to continue developing as a student, athlete and leader while pursuing my long-term goals.
From Coach Meals: "Gracie is a versatile defender who strengthens both our back line and holding midfield positions. She's composed in possession and defends with intensity, bringing quality and depth to the defensive side of the ball."
Ella Byrne
Position: Defender
Hometown: Lancaster, PA
High School: Manheim Township High School
Club Team: PA Classics GA
Academic Honors: Honor Roll
Athletic Honors: Second Team LL League All Star
Why Shepherd: I chose Shepherd University because of the tight knit community and to continue my athletic career playing for a competitive program.
From Coach Meals: "Ella is a strong center back who is calm on the ball and good in the air. Her competitiveness in 1v1 moments will strengthen our defensive prowess, while maintaining our possession style of play from the back."
Haley Ruddy
Position: Midfield
Hometown: Columbia, Md.
High School: Long Reach High School
Club Team: Baltimore Armour GA
Athletic Honors: Howard County – First Team and MD All-State Honorable mention
Why Shepherd: "I choose Shepherd because it feels like a place where I can make an impact. The University's strong sense of community, competitive athletic program and academic opportunities align with what I am looking for in my college experience.
From Coach Meals: "Haley brings a strong physical presence to the midfield along with the technical ability to link play effectively. Her versatility will heighten competition within our midfield group."
Catherine Tiday
Position: Midfielder/Wing
Hometown: Mechanicsburg, Pa.
High School: Cumberland Valley High School
Club Team: Keystone GA
Athletic Honors: Team captain and led her team to a first place finish in the Mid-Penn Commonwealth Conference with an 11-0-1 league mark.
Why Shepherd: "I chose Shepherd University because of the welcoming coaches and teammates. I committed later than most, but it led me to a place that feels like home and I wouldn't change a thing. I am super excited to be a Ram."
From Coach Meals: "Catherine brings strong technical ability and an attack-minded mentality in midfield or wing positions. Her work rate on both sides of the ball will add energy, depth and quality to our unit."
Amaiya Newton
Position: Forward/Outside Back
Hometown: Leesburg, Va.
High School: Heritage High School
Club Team: Loudoun GA
Academic Honors: National Honor Society
Athletic Honors: Loudoun Soccer MVP, Presidents Award, Outstanding Student Athlete Award, Invited to and Junior Olympics for AAU Track & Field
Why Shepherd: "I chose Shepherd University because the environment of the team felt welcoming and I felt welcomed and valued as a player. I also see myself continuing to develop skills and grow as a player/person being a part of the program."
From Coach Meals: "Amaiya is a fast, attack-minded forward/outside back who loves to take players on and stretch backlines. Her creativity and work rate will add depth and versatility both up front and in flanks."
Luna Garcia
Position: Midfielder
Hometown: Raleigh, N.C.
College: Lees-McCrae
High School: Wakefield High School
Club Team: NCFC ECNL
Academic Honors: Class President, National Honor Society, Beta Club,
Athletic Honors: Offensive Player of the Year and player of the match titles
Why Shepherd: "I chose Shepherd University because of its winning culture, competitive environment, and the opportunity to continue both academically and athletically at a high level."
From Coach Meals: "Luna is a dynamic and creative midfielder who impacts the game with her vision and distribution. Her ability to read the game will strengthen our attacking presence next fall."
Gracie Boritz
Position: Outside Back
Hometown: Linthicum, Md.
College: Shippensburg
High School: North County High School
Club Team: Pipeline ECNL
Academic/Athletic Honors: Minds in Motion award x12, Varsity soccer: All-County second team (sophomore year), All-County first team (junior and senior year), All-State (senior year). Soccer team MVP: junior and senior year
Why Shepherd: "I chose Shepherd University because it felt like home and provided me with the best opportunity for my future on and off the field."
From Coach Meals: "Gracie is an athletic, attack-minded outside back who loves to get forward in the attack. Her strong 1v1 defending and work rate will add depth and versatility to our back line."
