Utah Valley University women’s soccer signs four transfers ahead of 2021 season

Brady, a 5-foot-7 midfielder from American Fork, Utah, played her freshman season at the University of Minnesota in 2019. She played in all 19 matches for the Gophers, recording two assists, 22 shots, and five shots on goal. Brady recorded the game-tying assist in her first-ever collegiate game against UC Santa Barbara (8/22/19). She also assisted the game-winning goal in a 1-0 decision over Northwestern (10/24/19).

“Manthy (Brady) can score and create goal scoring chances,” said Lemay. “Having Big Ten experience where she earned lots of playing time as a freshman will continue to deepen our options up front. She is great when we have the ball, but she is also a hunter and can press backlines.”

Brady prepped at Timpanogos High School where she scored an impressive 39 goals during her career. She was a two-time all-state honoree while leading the Timberwolves to multiple appearances at the 5A state tournament, including a championship showing in 2017. Brady earned the Region VIII MVP in 2017 and was named to the Daily Herald All-Valley Girls Soccer team after scoring 12 goals with eight assists during her senior season. She helped Utah FC to state titles in 2016 and 2018 as well as a Far West regional championship in 2018.

“I am so excited to be a Wolverine this fall,” said Brady. “It really is coming home. There are wonderful players and coaches here, and such a good environment all around. It’s a wonderful program where everyone is family!”

Hughes, a 5-foot-3 midfielder/defender from Salem, Utah, played her freshman (2017) and sophomore (2020) seasons at Utah State. She played in nine of USU’s 10 matches last season, tallying one assist with five shots and two shots on goal. In her two seasons at USU, Hughes played in 28 matches with 10 shots.

“Ashley (Hughes) is a versatile player that can contribute in the back or the midfield,” said Lemay. “She will fit in well with this group and will bring a positive attitude to our team culture. She is composed under pressure and good with her feet.”

Hughes played at Salem Hills High School where she finished her career with 21 goals and 23 assists, earning all-region honors. She helped SHHS to back-to-back regional titles in 2015 and 2016. Hughes played seven seasons of club soccer with Utah Celtic FC, helping the team to the State Cup finals each year from 2013-16 and won the tournament in 2011.

“I’m super excited, honored, and grateful for the chance to play for UVU women’s soccer,” said Hughes. “I’m pumped to go to work and to help the team achieve our goals!”

Bailey, a 5-foot-5 forward from Prosper, Texas, played her freshman and sophomore seasons at Northwestern Oklahoma State. She most recently played in all seven of NWOSU’s spring games where she recorded a goal and an assist with four shots, including three on frame.

“Rachel (Bailey) can play in the wide space for us next year as a wide forward or wide back,” said Lemay. “She is athletic and can get up and down the field. We are excited to watch her grow her game as a Wolverine.”

Bailey prepped at Prosper High School where she led her team to a district title. She played club soccer for FC Dallas ECNL from 2016-19.

“I’m excited to be a part of the UVU soccer program where I will have continuous opportunities to grow as both a person and a player,” said Bailey.

Wynn is a 5-fooot-8 defender from Provo, Utah. She played her freshman season at Utah State in 2019, appearing in 19 matches with 16 starts. Wynn played 1,544 minutes, logging a season-high 110 minutes at Fresno State. She was part of a USU backline that allowed just 13 goals and recorded six shutouts.

“Kat (Wynn) sees the game well and can distribute out of the back and even under pressure,” said Lemay. “She played virtually every minute in her freshmen campaign at Utah State and is a nice addition to our already strong defensive unit. Kat is good on both sides of the ball and fits into our team and brand.”

Wynn prepped at Timpview High School where she earned all-region honors and helped the Thunderbirds to a 4A state title. She played club soccer for Utah Celtic FC, helping the squad to Utah State Cup championships in 2013 and 2016-18. Wynn was named to the Utah 2000 ODP team in 2013, 2015, and 2016.

“I chose UVU because of the feeling of unity I got from the players and coaches,” said Wynn. “I know UVU is a place where I will progress both on and off the field.”