2025 Season Preview: Umpqua Riverhawks Women's Soccer Poised for Breakout Year
As the 2025 NWAC women's soccer season approaches, the Umpqua Riverhawks are turning the page with high expectations and renewed energy. Coming off a challenging 2-9-3 campaign in 2024, the Riverhawks return a core group of experienced sophomores and welcome a gritty, determined freshman class that's already making waves in preseason training.
Head coach Annika Arroyo enters the season with a roster stacked with potential and hunger. Ten sophomores return, most of whom were starters last season, bringing much-needed leadership and familiarity to the pitch. "The experience these sophomores bring is invaluable," said the coach. "They've been through the battles, and now they're ready to lead this program to the next level."
Key Returners Ready to Lead
Midfielder Katrina Beltran stands out as one of the returning playmakers. She tallied 3 points in 2024, including two goals and one assist, and has already stepped into a leadership role both on and off the field. Her creativity and vision in the midfield will be crucial as the Riverhawks look to improve their offensive production this year.
Defensive anchor Hadley Williams returns after a standout freshman year where she earned NWAC Southern Region Honorable Mention honors. Her presence on the backline was vital last season, and her composure and communication continue to set the tone for the team's defensive structure.
Adding further strength to the defensive unit is sophomore transfer Hannah Heuberger from Lane Community College, an NWAC Southern Region All-Star. Her experience at a high level of competition adds another layer of toughness and stability to a defense already looking strong heading into the season.
Freshman Class Brings Fire and Focus
Complementing the returning group is a freshman class 9 strong, who have impressed early in training. They bring a gritty mindset and a hunger to improve, pushing the sophomores in every drill. Practices have been described as "extremely competitive," a positive sign of a team that refuses to settle.
"This group of freshmen came in with a chip on their shoulder," said Coach Arroyo. "They're not just here to fill spots—they want to compete, contribute, and win. It's elevated the entire environment."
A Competitive Preseason Ahead
The Riverhawks kick off their preseason with a scrimmage against Bushnell University on August 14, followed by a trip to California to face College of the Siskiyous on August 17. These early tests will give the coaching staff a chance to evaluate chemistry, cohesion, and conditioning before NWAC play begins.
Looking Ahead
With a deep sophomore class, impactful newcomers, and a sharpened competitive edge, the 2025 Umpqua Riverhawks are in a strong position to surprise teams across the conference. While last year's record may not reflect the team's potential, this year's group looks primed to rewrite the narrative.
"The difference this year is the mindset," said the coach. "We're no longer rebuilding—we're ready to compete."
Fans of the Riverhawks can expect a hard-working, high-energy squad that fights for every minute on the pitch. If the early signs are any indication, 2025 could mark a turning point for Umpqua Women's Soccer.
