LIVINGSTON, Ala. – The University of West Alabama women's soccer program has announced its 2025 newcomer class, adding depth and international experience to the roster as the Tigers prepare for the upcoming season. The group includes a blend of freshmen, transfers, and experienced returners from competitive programs across the globe.
Leading the new class is junior midfielder/defender Holly Gillies (Glasgow, Scotland / Meridian CC), who arrives after two strong seasons at Meridian Community College. Gillies started all 31 matches across her two years, recording one goal and six assists while proving to be a reliable two-way player in the midfield and back line.
Another veteran addition is redshirt senior forward Jamie Lefebvre (London, Ontario / Eastern Michigan), who brings NCAA Division I experience to Livingston. Despite missing the 2023 season due to injury, Lefebvre played in 26 matches across her first two active seasons with the Eagles, scoring three goals—including a game-winner—and adding two assists.
Among the incoming freshmen is a strong defensive core, including Maya Schilling (Gibraltar), Aynzlie Nelson(Pensacola, Fla. / Niceville), Amber Smith (Madison, Ala. / Sparkman), and Jade Arruda (Shelburne, Ontario / AIFC/Team Ontario). Each adds size and athleticism to UWA's back line, with Arruda bringing national-level playing experience from Canada.
The midfield receives a boost from Mikaela Carpino (Canada / Bishop Reding Catholic), Lacey Lambert (Pelham, Ala. / Pelham), and Lily Anderson (Collinsville, Miss. / West Lauderdale), a group expected to bring creativity and energy to the middle of the pitch.
Up front, the Tigers add attacking options with freshman forward Talitha Hines (Jacksonville Armada FC) and junior transfer forward Bailee Fairley (Collinsville, Miss. / Holmes CC). Fairley was a standout at Holmes, tallying 16 goals and 10 assists in two seasons, while Hines joins after competing with one of Florida's top club programs.
The Tigers open their 2025 campaign on the road against Kentucky Wesleyan on September 4th at 6 p.m.
