South Carolina Women’s Soccer Team Welcomes New Transfers

In exciting collegiate sports news coming out of Columbia, South Carolina, the University of South Carolina’s women’s soccer team recently welcomed two new transfers to the fold. Head Coach Shelley Smith expressed her excitement and optimism about the 2024 roster, which now includes new recruits Emma Misal from Rutgers University and Maggie Taitano from Florida State University.

Emma Misal: A Strong Addition to the Defense

Emma Misal, who will be joining as a 5th year player, has previously excelled in a role as defender for Rutgers. Her academic and athletic achievements include a 2022 All-Big Ten Third Team Selection, two-time Academic All-Big Ten honors (2021-2022), and 2020-21 Big Ten All-Freshman Team. Her contribution to Rutgers’ defense during her tenure was impressive.

The senior’s last season was partially disrupted due to injury, but she made a comeback in the NCAA Tournament match against Columbia. Misal has a history of providing strategic assists and contributing to shutouts with her defensive skills. Her decision to transfer was grounded in the positive vibes she experienced with the South Carolina team’s players and coaches.

Maggie Taitano: Bringing Fresh Energy and Championship Experience

Maggie Taitano joins South Carolina as a sophomore, with a recent 2023 National Championship under her belt from Florida State. As a freshman at FSU, Taitano logged significant field time and made crucial contributions, such as her career-first assist in the first round of the NCAA Tournament against Morehead State.

Before joining FSU, Taitano’s footballing prowess was already evident. She was part of the US U17 CONCACAF roster in March 2022 and had made the ECNL Southwest All-Conference Team. Also an academic achiever, Taitano made honor roll all four years of high school. The welcoming family environment, competitive atmosphere, and playing style at South Carolina inspired her decision to transfer.

A Winning Combination for South Carolina

With the addition of Emma Misal and Maggie Taitano, South Carolina’s women’s soccer team is set to take the field with renewed vigor. Coaches and fans are eager to see the new strategies and dynamics that these two talented players will introduce.

The chance to compete and excel at South Carolina has drawn these star players in, and their combination of skill, performance, and ambition promises a thrilling season. Both transfers stated that part of the appeal was not just the acclaimed athletic program, but also the scholastic opportunities presented by the school.

Looking Forward

As the anticipation for the 2024 season builds, the fans, teammates, and coaching staff at the University of South Carolina eagerly await the impact that Misal and Taitano will have on the field. Their impressive track records promise an exciting and successful season for the Gamecocks.