With momentum building from a competitive 2024 campaign and a strong core returning, the University of Utah women’s soccer team is set to launch into the 2025 season with renewed ambition. Head coach Hideki Nakada’s squad finished last year 8-6-5 overall and 5-3-3 in Big 12 play, solidifying their standing in the program’s first year in the conference. As they enter year two, the Utes are ready to take the next step.
The Utes’ 20-match schedule opens on the road, with the team returning to Ute Field for their home opener on Aug. 21 against Westminster. Utah’s strength at home was a hallmark of last season, where they went 6-2-3 in Salt Lake City. While Nakada’s team will face its share of Big 12 powerhouses once again, the focus this fall is on capitalizing on continuity, home-field advantage and an influx of new talent.
Nine new recruits and a key transfer for the Utes, defender Madison Encinas from Baylor, forwards Abby Affleck (Syracuse High) and Julia Oka (Pearl City High), midfielders Shannon Davidson (Redondo Union High) and Finley Aghassi (Westlake High), forward/midfielder Eliza Smith (Highland high), midfielder and defender Mimi Yamamoto (Saint Francis High), defender Reese Kennel (Redondo Union High) and goalkeeper Eme McClenahan (Hinsdale Central High) have joined the team.
“I look for this group to enhance our quality of play and allow us to continue improving our style and brand of soccer,” Nakada said.
To start the season, the Utes will face marquee opponents such as North Carolina State, LSU and BYU. Rather than focusing on any single date, Nakada has emphasized building consistency throughout the season. Utah’s mix of veteran presence and fresh legs will be crucial in pushing the team toward a postseason berth and deeper runs in the Big 12 standings.
Adding to the excitement around the program is the news that former Ute midfielder Katie O’Kane has signed with Racing Louisville FC of the National Women’s Soccer League in the United States. O’Kane, who started all 54 matches in her three years at Utah, is the first Ute to sign with an NWSL team since the league eliminated its draft.
In 2024, O’Kane was second on the team in goals (6), assists (5), points (17) and shots (36). She was equally impressive off the field, earning multiple academic honors, including the Big 12 Fall Academic Team and CSC Academic All-District selections.
“I am incredibly proud and excited for Katie,” said Nakada. “She grew so much during her time at the U, and I had no doubt that she was a future pro. It is harder than ever to be in the NWSL, and she really had to earn it.”
O’Kane joins Courtney Brown — drafted by the Washington Spirit in 2024 — as the second Ute under Nakada to move into the professional ranks, reinforcing the program’s growing reputation as a launchpad for elite talent.
