Women’s soccer: Meet the newcomers

Granados is one of two players coming to VCU from Costa Rica this year. She is a dynamic midfielder who is known for being an excellent playmaker on offense. She is also one of just two freshmen who has earned a starting job this season.

Physically, Sears is a perfect fit to be a goalie. She is just over 6 feet tall and has a wide, athletic frame. She will compete with Megan Lynch for the backup keeper position this year, but Tiffany Sahaydak believes she is the goalie of the future.

Ernest made the final roster despite a recent recovery from her second ACL tear, one on each knee. The Sahaydaks praise her for her toughness on the field and her competitive mentality.

A recruit out of nearby Virginia Beach, Natividad is a quick, technical player who specializes in winning one-on-one situations. She may be overshadowed by players like Maren Johansen this year but will be a valuable asset down the line.

Of all the freshmen, Johansen may have the biggest impact this season. She will be a scoring threat at all times and brings electricity on offense with her striking and playmaking abilities.

Gogolin is a recruit from Stafford, Va. who brings a lot to the game tactfully and emotionally. She will come off the bench at times to provide a boost to her teammates.

Carden, along with Carol Sanchez, is the marquee name on this list. She is a transfer from Virginia Tech with tremendous potential to be a dominant goalie. Expectations are extremely high, and so far she has delivered.

Sanchez’s credentials speak for themselves; she was a starter on Costa Rica’s national team. We’ll leave it at that.