By Jordan Shim–
Women’s soccer coach Karen Ferguson-Dayes announced the addition of eight new recruits for this fall. Seven will be incoming freshmen, while the other is a transfer.
The class features six offensive players to bolster the midfield and attacking front while providing depth to the back line and goalkeeping.
Lana Batson, goalkeeper
Batson joins Louisville having played for one of California’s top clubs, Albion SC San Diego ECNL. Alongside sophomore Niamh Nelson, Batson will be the second San Diego product on the roster. With Taylor Bucklin graduating, Batson will immediately challenge for the starting goalkeeper position with redshirt freshman Gabrielle Kozuelos and junior Victoria Gabor.
Morgan Dewey, defender
Dewey is a wide defender with an attacking mindset. Being a natural left-footed player will be an asset for the team. Her playtime may be limited because Shelby Cohen and Nelson occupy both fullback positions. Dewey may redshirt or develop and contribute in her second year.
Emina Ekic, midfielder
Ekic is also a local product that committed to Louisville since her freshman season in high school. Ekic has a rare combination of technique and the vision to play a final ball, both aspects of the game Louisville lacked last season. Her ability on the ball may see her contribute right away.
Nadege L’Esperance, midfielder
L’Esperance arrived in January and plays with sophomore Sarah Feola in the U-17 Canadian National Team. Tactically sound, L’Esperance will form a solid partnership alongside Callie McKinney in front of the back four. Her attention to detail will allow her to develop quickly and may contribute in her first season.
TJ Anderson, midfielder
Anderson comes from a successful program in Concorde Fire ECNL so that it will ease her transition to stacked ACC. She is physically capable of contributing right away, but her leadership quality could be impactful for the team.
Taylor Kerwin, midfielder
Kerwin is the most versatile player in this year’s recruiting class. She can contribute on defense or even line up as a center forward. Her versatility will allow her to fill any gaps the team has. Her leadership qualities will benefit the team going forward.
Kennadi Carbin, forward
Carbin returns to her hometown of Louisville after spending her first two years of her collegiate career at Mississippi State where she scored six goals. Her 5-foot-11 frame could form a lethal combination next to Brooklynn Rivers. Carbin’s ability to play wide will give Ferguson-Dayes another attacking option, an area the team lacked depth.
Morgan Everett, forward
Everett joins the Cardinals after having collected numerous awards on and off the field. She was a member of the All-Region team in North Carolina from 2013 to 2015. She has played overseas, collecting trophies in Spain, Sweden and Denmark. Her size will bode well against ACC center backs and is built for Ferguson-Dayes’ system. With Louisville lacking a go-to scorer throughout the season, Everett’s nose for goal is an excellent addition.
File photo / The Louisville Cardinal
