DES MOINES, Iowa – Drake women's soccer head coach Lindsey Horner has announced the signing of five players to join the Bulldogs for the 2027 season.
 
Grace Gady, Lillian Jones, Maria Olwig, Sophie Pearson, and Maddie Shillings will join the program next year.
 
GRACE GADY l EDINA, MINNESOTA l EDINA HIGH SCHOOL
 
Why Grace Chose Drake: "I committed to Drake because it provides a great environment for me to develop both as a player and a person. The coaches were kind, supportive, and demonstrated strong coaching strategies that I believe will help me improve.  Additionally, the team culture is positive and supportive, making it a program I would be excited to be a part of."
 
What They Are Saying About Grace: "Drake can expect Grace to compete and put in the work both on and off the field.  She is tenacious, absolutely clinical in the final third, and has a desire to be better today than she was yesterday. She elevates any space she's in simply by being there and will put the team above all else at whatever cost. Drake is fortunate to have a player like Grace join their program. She is the kind of person and player any coach would be lucky to have in their environment."  - Taylor Greathouse, Edina Varsity Girls Soccer Head Coach
 
LILLIAN JONES l MINNETONKA, MINNESOTA l MINNETONKA HIGH SCHOOL
 
Why Lillian Chose Drake: "I chose Drake Women's Soccer because of the positive team culture, supportive coaches, as well as the competitive and successful nature of the program.  I am also beyond excited for the high-quality education and the countless opportunities within the Health Sciences program at Drake University. Go Bulldogs!"
 
What They Are Saying About Lillian: "Drake can expect LJ to be a big force in goal who does an outstanding job of organizing her backline, can make impactful saves, and is a strong distributor while building out of the back. She will bring high level match experience including a Section Title and a State Tournament appearance. Her resume includes 33 career shutouts and First Team All-State Honors." - Jeff Hopkins, Minnetonka Varsity Girls Soccer Head Coach
 
MARIA OLWIG l SAINT CHARLES, MISSOURI l ST. JAMES ACADEMY
 
Why Maria Chose Drake: "I am excited to attend Drake University because of its team chemistry and culture. They all work so well together, and I love how they can have fun with one another, on the field and off the field!"
 
What They Are Saying About Maria: "Maria is an intelligent player who can unlock the game in the attack with her dribbling and passing ability. Most importantly, she is an amazing human being who puts the program and team first." - Matt Mueller, Head Coach Lou Fusz Athletic GA
 
SOPHIE PEARSON l PLEASANT HILL, IOWA l SOUTHEAST POLK HIGH SCHOOL
 
Why Sophie Chose Drake: "I committed to Drake because I love the atmosphere and coaching staff. I'm excited to be pushed to grow as a player and compete at a high level. I am very grateful to have the privilege of being a Bulldog!"
 
What They Are Saying About Sophie: "Drake should expect an exceptional player in Sophie, but even more importantly, an exceptional person. She possesses exceptional foot skills, an outstanding understanding of the game, and an uncanny ability to read the field and anticipate the play. Her technical ability, creativity, and competitive drive sets her apart, but it's her passion, work ethic, and commitment to being a great teammate that makes her special. I couldn't be prouder of the player and person she has become, and I know Drake is getting a tremendous talent who will make an impact both on and off the field. Her best soccer is still ahead of her!" - Jamie Philips, Fuerza Raptors FC Head Coach
 
MADDIE SHILLINGS l WOODBURY, MINNESOTA l EAST RIDGE HIGH SCHOOL
 
Why Maddie Chose Drake: "I committed to Drake because of the outstanding team chemistry, amazing coaching staff, programs consistent success, and elite academics! I am super excited for next fall when I get to represent the Drake program and compete amongst other incredible players and continue my soccer journey!"
 
What They Are Saying About Maddie: "Maddie brings an exceptional combination of field vision, technical skill, and high-level work ethic that makes her an immediate gamechanger for Drake Women's Soccer. Her ability to control the tempo of play and create high-percentage scoring opportunities will elevate Drake's attack to new heights.  The Drake soccer community can look forward to seeing her dynamic athletic talent and natural leadership make a lasting impact on the Drake Women's Soccer program." - Danny Storlien, Minnesota Thunder Academy ECNL Head Coach