ABILENE – National Signing Day hits the nation on November 13, and Abilene Christian's Soccer team is thrilled to welcome six talented players to the Wildcat family. Representing diverse skills and backgrounds, this class brings a powerful mix of athleticism, expertise, and leadership to ACU. The new signees are assured to make an immediate impact under head coach Stephen Salas and bringing a competitiveness to the team.
From Leawood, Kansas, Jada Farrington is a center back and defender and is a graduate of Blue Valley North High School, where she excelled as a multi-sport varsity athlete. In high school, she earned All-State and EKL honors in soccer. She also competed for the club team Kansas Rush GA. Beyond soccer, she was a standout on the track as a 6A Kansas State Champion in the 4x400m relay and also achieved success in basketball, contributing to her team's state championship win.
"I chose ACU for its supportive team and faithful environment. The team's determination and strong coaching staff make me excited to join the Wildcat family." - Jada Farrington
"Jada is a student-athlete who will elevate ACU Soccer on many levels," said head coach Steohen Salas. "She is a multi-sport athlete and wins at every level. She plays with a high level of defending in every game and is an attacking threat from the back too. Jada's championship mentality, determination to elevate the spaces she's in, and pour into the community will thrive at ACU! "
Shelby Hollywood, a forward and attacking midfielder from Salado, Texas, made a name for herself at Salado High School and with Lonestar Soccer Club. Known for her offensive prowess, she earned Team Offensive MVP honors, along with TASCO All-State recognition. Shelby was also named to the UIL State All-Tournament Team as a forward.
"ACU felt like home from the moment I arrived. I love the close-knit community and the opportunity to grow my faith while being part of something bigger than soccer." - Shelby Hollywood
"Shelby is a lethal forward who brings speed and goal-scoring ability to our team," Salas said. "She won a National Championship last year with her club team which will elevate our team's pedigree. Shelby's character is always finding ways to serve her team, elevate the space she is in, and has a blue collar work ethic in all that she does. We are elated to have her as a Wildcat."
Emma Taylor, a midfielder and forward from Frisco, Texas, honed her skills at Reedy High School and with FC Dallas ECNL-RL. Because of her competitive edge and field vision, she earned All-District and All-Region honors. Her dedication contributed to a Texas Conference Championship, highlighting her commitment to excellence on the field.
"I felt a sense of belonging at ACU. The supportive environment within the team and the campus community made it feel like home where I can grow as an individual." - Emma Taylor
"Emma will hit the ground running and has many impactful skill sets that will elevate our team," said Salas. "She is poised, consistent, and talented on both sides of the ball. Emma's character and desire to lift up those who are around her was evident."
As a goalkeeper from Lubbock, Texas, Bella Medrano attended Frenship High School and played club soccer with Americas FC. Bella earned 1st Team All-Region honors and was named District Goalkeeper of the Year. She also achieved national success with her club, helping secure an NPL National Championship.
"ACU's welcoming environment and faith-based community made it feel like home. I am excited to be part of such a supportive atmosphere in Abilene." - Bella Medrano
"Bella is a dynamic goalkeeper with a high ceiling," Salas said. "She's stepped up big for her high school and club, which I know will translate for our team. Bella has incredible athletic ability, is proficient with her distribution, and has the ability to make big time saves. We are happy to keep our West Texas talent in Abilene."
Keely Niehues, a midfielder and forward from Olathe, Kansas, attended Saint James Academy and played for Kansas Rush GA. With a strong track record of success, she is a three-time USYS Kansas State Champion and is recognized as one of the top players in the Kansas City area.
"The environment and community of people at ACU made it the perfect fit. I can't wait to go to college here and be part of such an amazing team." - Keely Niehues
"Keely brings a dominating stature and competitive mindset to our team," said Salas. "She gets stuck into tackles and has tremendous fight in her play. Keeley has the ability to distribute and score, and to do so in many different capacities. Her excitement for ACU brings a passion and desire to be a Wildcat."
A wing and wingback from Murrieta, California, Kylie Wilkins developed her game at Temecula Valley High School and with Murrieta Soccer Academy. Her speed and offensive impact named her Offensive Player of the Year and earned All-League honors. She also showcased her talents on a larger stage as a participant in the Capelli Sport ID Event, further highlighting her potential on the field.
"ACU's smaller size, Christian foundation, and strong team bond made it an easy choice. I'm so excited to join the Wildcat family!" -Kylie Wilkins
"Kylie brings speed, creativity, and savviness to our team," Salas said. "She is another attacking player that has the ability to score and set up goals. Kylie brings a threat to get in behind backlines, beat defenders 1v1, and has poise on the ball. Her relentlessness on and off the ball were evident in evaluating her as a fit for ACU Soccer."
These six athletes embody the values and competitive spirit that ACU Soccer strives for and will be tremendous assets on and off the field. ACU Soccer looks forward to seeing their talents improve as they play in the Wildcat uniform.
