CEDAR CITY, UTAH -- With an experienced core returning and several impactful newcomers joining the mix, Southern Utah's midfield is poised to be the heartbeat of the Thunderbirds' lineup in 2026.

First-year head coach Steven Lindquist sees the midfield as the engine that will drive his team's style of play, controlling possession, dictating tempo and connecting the defensive and attacking thirds.

"Our midfield is going to be the heartbeat of the team," Lindquist said. "They're going to dictate the pace of play. When we go forward, when we keep the ball. Defensively, they're the engine, driving forward, getting back and managing those transition moments."

Southern Utah returns two familiar faces in Dakota Hansen and Sicily Clark, both of whom earned All-WAC Freshman Team honors last season. Their experience and versatility provide a strong foundation for a midfield group that blends technical ability, tactical awareness and relentless work rate.

Dakota enters her sophomore campaign after an impressive freshman season and is expected to once again play a key role in controlling the center of the pitch. Sicily, another talented returner, brings composure on the ball and the ability to impact the game in multiple ways as she continues to develop.

The Thunderbirds also welcome LMU transfer Emma Depailler, who Lindquist believes will make an immediate impact. Equipped with a powerful left foot, high soccer IQ and crafty ability on the ball, she adds another dynamic option to the midfield rotation.

"Emma has a hammer of a left foot," Lindquist said. "She's crafty on the ball and has a really high soccer IQ. She's someone we're excited to see make an impact right away."

Another player to watch is Sophia Memory, who returns after battling through injury a season ago. Lindquist is eager to see what she can bring back to the lineup, particularly in the attacking half.

"Getting Mems back is huge," Lindquist said. "The quality she has in the final third, her ability to play entry balls and create scoring chances for herself and for others is something we've really missed."

Freshman Madeline Buczyna also enters the program with the tools to contribute early. Lindquist praised her nonstop motor, dangerous left foot and willingness to cover ground all over the field.

"She's an engine," Lindquist said. "She buzzes around the field, works nonstop and strikes the ball really well with her left foot."

The depth throughout the midfield gives Southern Utah the flexibility to adapt throughout matches while maintaining its identity. Whether controlling possession, winning second balls or creating opportunities in the attacking third, Lindquist believes the group has the balance needed to impact every phase of the game.

With proven returners, an exciting transfer addition and talented young players ready to make their mark, the Thunderbirds' midfield has the potential to be one of the team's biggest strengths in 2026.

Midfielders: Madeline Buczyna - 5'3, Fr., Suika Shibutani - 5'2, So., Sicily Clark - 5'5, So., Dakota Hansen - 5'7, So., Sofia Alcorn - 5'4, Fr., Emma Depailler - 5'2, Jr., Sophia Memory - 5'1, R-Jr., Stella Luts - 5'1, So., Maddie Moss - 5'6, So., Halle Cowan - 5'3, So.

---

Follow Us

For all the latest on Southern Utah Soccer, follow @SUUSoccer on Twitter and Instagram and like the Southern Utah Soccer Facebook page.

---

Donate

To help support Thunderbirds athletics, consider making a donation today! To learn more about how you can support, click here.