ANCASTER, ON - As the 2025 women's soccer season kicks off, the team enters the campaign with a clear vision: maintain the high standard of performance they've established in recent years, while pushing for even greater intensity and positivity on and off the field. The defending OCAA West Division Champions have their eyes set on returning to the top of the table. "We don't want any dip in results," says Head Coach Meaghan Rudd. "But beyond that, we want other teams to really notice that we're different through our encouragement, energy, and how we carry ourselves."

A strong returning core gives this year's squad a solid foundation. Midfielder Emily Walraven will transition back to a central defensive midfield role, where her defensive instincts and ability to distribute the ball make her a crucial anchor in the middle of the pitch. On the back line, Mya Sieders is set to step into a larger role. Known for her ball control and defensive prowess, she'll be a stabilizing force in the defensive third. Up front, Joelle Mitton returns after a standout season and brings improved speed and finishing ability to the front line. Alongside her, Alia Breukelman provides strength and composure in possession, offering both distribution and scoring threats.

Despite some changes to the roster, the team is energized by a promising group of newcomers. Tautiana Pellegrino brings speed and sharp ball-handling skills that will make her a threat on the wing from the first whistle. Meanwhile, Ava Manshanden is expected to bring a composed, experienced presence to the center of the pitch, bolstering the midfield unit.

Coach Rudd shared, "Fans can expect a composed, tactical brand of soccer this season, with an emphasis on controlling possession and generating more high-danger scoring opportunities. The team has focused heavily on sharpening its shape in the offseason, particularly in transitions, while utilizing the width of the field. We're hoping our strength will be in how well we play together as a unit," the coaching staff notes. That unity extends beyond the field as well. The returning players have made it a priority to welcome and integrate the new athletes, and the early signs are promising.

Coach Rudd identified October 1 as a key date for the Royals as they square off against the Humber Hawks. The Royals are 1-1-3 against the Hawks in the last three seasons. The two programs have developed a highly skilled rivalry locked in an even tie composed of one win, one loss and three draws. Last season, the Hawks spoiled the Royals' championship hopes in the OCAA semi-finals. Still, the team is locked in on taking each contest seriously, maintaining the focus to "play from the opening whistle to the closing whistle."

The 2025 campaign starts now, and Royals fans will not want to miss a second of the action. Redeemer opens the season on the road at Niagara on September 5th at 6:00 PM. 

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