PROVO — The BYU women’s soccer team is gearing up for its eighth consecutive NCAA Tournament, a competition that begins this Friday against in-state rival Utah State. This promising season, which marks the team’s 26th appearance in the past 31 years, has been driven not only by its leading scorer, Ellie Walbruch, but also by the crucial contributions of her cousin, Lucy Kesler.
Walbruch has captured the spotlight with her remarkable tally of 16 goals this season, ranking her eighth in NCAA Division I women’s soccer. However, the defensive prowess of Kesler, a second-year player who was recently honored as an All-Big 12 selection, is vital in complementing Walbruch’s offensive efforts. Her skills shine through on the pitch, thanks to her composed playing style and ability to disrupt opposing attacks.
Though Kesler’s statistics—two goals and three assists in 19 matches—do not fully encapsulate her value, her absence from the field was keenly felt earlier this season. After being called up to join the U.S. U-20 women’s national team for a training camp, BYU suffered two defeats against Kansas and UCF. Upon her return, the Cougars rebounded, earning a narrow 1-0 victory over Kansas, highlighting her integral role in the team.
Walbruch describes Kesler as a “firefighter” on the field, able to quench offensive threats and embodying leadership qualities that resonate through the team. Despite being a sophomore, Kesler displays the maturity of an upperclassman and inspires her teammates with her work ethic and composure.
The collaboration between the cousins is a bright spot for the BYU Cougars, particularly in a squad that features seasoned defenders and a talented goalkeeper. Their shared family history adds a personal touch to their on-field chemistry, as both players have deep ties to the BYU community, stemming from their family’s dedication to sports.
Bill Freeze, their grandfather who played football at BYU and raised a family in the realm of athletics, supports the pair with fervor. He remains their number one fan, often reaching out after games to share in their successes.
Both athletes express gratitude for their families, who live nearby in Highland, allowing for shared training experiences. Walbruch’s family, including her father and brother, actively participate in these sessions, contributing to her development as a player. Meanwhile, Kesler acknowledges that Walbruch’s outstanding performance this season, particularly during the Big 12 tournament where she scored five goals across three matches, results from relentless effort and support from those around her.
“As a teammate, it’s been awesome to watch Ellie progressively get back into her game throughout the season,” Kesler stated, referencing Walbruch’s remarkable recovery after a torn ACL sidelined her the previous year. The duo’s growing synergy is a beacon of hope for the Cougars as they aim for a successful run in the tournament, proving that teamwork and familial bonds can create powerful outcomes on the field.