A robust and talented roster is giving Cyclones women's soccer plenty to be excited about in the 2024 fall season.

With several starting sophomores graduating last year, the Cyclones needed to replenish the roster. The coaches were busy recruiting and built a solid core of athletes who are making this team a tough one to face.

Returning this season is goalkeeper Ximena Delgado (Shepard), who had 53 saves and only five goals against her last year. Midfielder Olivia Jeziorczak (Richards) also returns as team captain. She has worked hard and been dedicated to the team success throughout the offseason. Defender Elena Popovic (Shepard) is another team captain and a force to be reckoned with on the pitch.

Some newcomers who should make an impact early are forward Heather Canny (Lockport), midfielder Camila Barragan (Chicago Hope Academy), midfielder/defender Lesly Echavarrieta (Argo) and midfielder Rachel Rosier (Lockport).

In his second year leading the program, Head Coach Javier Roman has confidence in his lineup. With the majority of the team comprised of freshmen, he said they're learning to play at this higher level, but once they put it all together, they should be good.

"We're going to be tough. We have a lot of talent, and they can run and touch. As long as we stay healthy, we'll be ready," Roman said.

Bringing the team from a losing season to a winning one last year, Roman has bigger goals in 2024 – make the next round of playoffs and into the Final Four of Region 4.

"With the team we have, we should be able to reach those goals," Roman noted. "We've been running a lot, and it pays off. If you can run for 90 minutes, you'll be fine. They're ready and so am I. I'm looking forward to the season."

Roman, who also is an assistant for the men's soccer team, will be assisted again by men's Head Coach Chris Koloffon.

The Cyclones open their season at home against Kankakee Community College on Saturday, Aug. 24, 1:30 p.m.