The University of Tennessee’s women’s soccer program has made a significant stride by securing commitments from three exceptional 5-star recruits for the upcoming season. This development underscores the program’s dedication to excellence and its ambition to compete at the highest levels of collegiate soccer.
Abby Batts | Forward | Cumming, Georgia
Hailing from Cumming, Georgia, Abby Batts has been a pivotal force for West Forsyth High School, leading them to two GHSA Class 7A state championships in 2022 and 2024. Her prowess isn’t confined to the high school arena; in 2024, Batts showcased her talent on the international stage as a member of the Brazil U17 National Team. Her accolades include a Southeast All-Conference U16 selection, the 2021 All-Conference Player of the Year, and First Team Southeast Conference honors. In 2022, she further cemented her reputation by earning an invitation to the USYNT Team camp.
Ali Howard | Forward | Collierville, Tennessee
Ali Howard’s tenure at Briarcrest Christian School is marked by consistent excellence. She earned the TWSA and THSCAA All-State honors twice and secured All-Region accolades on two occasions. Her offensive capabilities were recognized with back-to-back Offensive MVP awards in 2022 and 2023. Howard’s talent also garnered her spots on both the Commercial Appeal’s and Daily Memphian’s First Team All-Metro Teams during those years. In February, her burgeoning potential was acknowledged with a selection to the U.S. Youth Soccer Girls ODP National Roster.
Morgan Weaver | Goalkeeper | St. Augustine, Florida
From St. Augustine, Florida, Morgan Weaver has been a stalwart in goal for Tocoi Creek High School, serving as a four-year starter and captain. Her skills earned her a place on the U.S. Youth Soccer Girls ODP National roster, and she was distinguished as an ECNL Girls Southeast All-Conference team member. Weaver’s international experience is notable; during a tour in England with the ODP U17 national team, she was honored as the MVP by Manchester City’s coaching staff, highlighting her exceptional goalkeeping talents.
Head coach Joe Kirt expressed immense enthusiasm about these additions, stating, “We are incredibly excited to welcome this group of tremendous young women to Rocky Top. They each bring a winning mentality and competitiveness that will fit seamlessly into our culture and team.” He emphasized their championship-winning mindset and their potential to be exemplary representatives both on the field and in the community.
The integration of these 5-star recruits addresses critical positional needs for the Lady Vols. Batts and Howard are set to bolster the forward line with their scoring abilities, while Weaver’s goalkeeping skills will be pivotal in fortifying the team’s defense. Their arrival is anticipated to have an immediate and profound impact on the team’s dynamics.
This recruitment success is part of a broader strategy by Tennessee to elevate its women’s soccer program. In the previous year, the team announced a signing class ranked No. 11 nationally and No. 1 in the SEC by Top Drawer Soccer, comprising 18 players, including 16 field players and two goalkeepers. This class featured a blend of incoming freshmen and transfers with collegiate experience, underscoring the program’s commitment to depth and versatility.
The Lady Vols have been on an upward trajectory, with recent seasons reflecting significant progress. The infusion of top-tier talent like Batts, Howard, and Weaver is expected to further this momentum, positioning Tennessee as a formidable contender in the SEC and on the national stage.
Beyond their on-field contributions, these recruits embody the academic and community values that the University of Tennessee holds dear. Their commitment to excellence extends beyond soccer, promising to enrich the university community as a whole.
As the new season approaches, anticipation is building among fans and analysts alike. The strategic acquisitions made by the coaching staff are poised to translate into thrilling performances and, potentially, championship successes.
In conclusion, the commitment of these three 5-star players marks a significant milestone for Tennessee women’s soccer. Their arrival not only enhances the team’s competitive edge but also reinforces the program’s dedication to fostering talent that excels both on and off the field.