MACOMB, IL. – Western Illinois women's soccer added five standout student-athletes to its 2025 signing class, officially welcoming a talented group of future Leathernecks who will join the program next season. The class includes Ashton Conkling (Melbourne, Australia), Karley Darago (Hughesville, MD), Mya Gélinas-Melsbach (St-Bruno-de-Montarville, Quebec, Canada), Valentina Alejandra Carmona Marquez (Los Teques, Venezuela), and Sarah Bella Murray (Chicago, IL).

Each brings a unique combination of skill, leadership, and championship experience that will add depth and versatility to the Leatherneck roster.

Conkling, a midfielder and defender from Melbourne, Australia, comes to Western after a decorated career at Edmond North High School in Edmond, OK, and with Oklahoma Energy FC (ECNL). A 2024 Oklahoma 6A State Champion and All-District selection, Conkling was also part of her school's 6A Academic Soccer Champion team and a member of the National Honor Society. "My parents have been my biggest influences," Conkling said. "They've always pushed me to reach my goals and taught me the importance of hard work and discipline. I chose Western because it feels like the best place for me to grow as both an athlete and student. The team's atmosphere and school spirit made it feel like home."

Darago, a midfielder from Hughesville, MD, has been a key contributor for Maryland United FC ECNL and North Point High School. A consistent Principal's Honor Roll student, she was named All-Conference First Team and is known for her technical control and composure in the midfield. Her most memorable moment came when she returned to the field following a complete ACL reconstruction. "From the moment I stepped onto Western's campus, I felt like I was home," Darago said. "The coaches, players, and community were so welcoming. After visiting, I could clearly see my future here."

Gélinas-Melsbach, a forward from St-Bruno-de-Montarville, Quebec, brings speed and creativity to the Leatherneck attack. A product of AS Brossard, she was recognized as Top Athlete and Most Dedicated Student, while also leading her team as Top Winter League Goal Scorer. One of her favorite moments came when her team won a tournament in Bordeaux, France, defeating the academy of Les Girondins de Bordeaux. "I had a great connection with Coach Henderson," she said. "I believe he's the coach I need to help me grow and develop into a top player. I'm excited to be part of building something strong at Western Illinois."

Carmona Marquez, a defender and fullback from Los Teques, Venezuela, joins the Leathernecks after an impressive collegiate career at Monroe College, where she helped lead her team to multiple national tournament appearances and several District Championships. Her experience extends internationally, having played for Real Oviedo (Spain), Deportivo La Guaira, and several Venezuelan clubs including ACDM, Los Castores, and ADIFFEM. "My mother and brother have been my biggest supporters since I started playing," she said. "I chose Western because I feel I can contribute with my energy, commitment, and desire to improve every day. I love the campus atmosphere and believe it's the perfect place for me to continue growing."

Murray, a forward and winger from Chicago, IL, brings offensive firepower to Western following an outstanding prep career at De La Salle Institute. She tallied 24 goals and 8 assists in her most recent season, leading the Chicago Catholic Conference while earning All-Sectional and All-Conference honors. Murray helped her team to three consecutive Regional Championships and a Sectional title, with her 2022–23 team finishing fourth in the state. Off the field, she earned High Honor Roll recognition and membership in the National Honor Society. "Western felt like the perfect fit academically and athletically," Murray said. "The coaching staff and players were so welcoming, and the campus atmosphere made me feel right at home. Being close to family makes it even more special knowing they'll be able to watch me play."

Reflecting on the incoming class, Western Illinois head coach Ross Henderson expressed excitement about the new additions.

"Excited to bring these student-athletes into the Leatherneck family. Building on a solid foundation we are eager to get going with each of our signees, with more to come. This incoming class are going to add a lot of energy, athleticism and technical ability, and help us continue to build a competitive culture and unity within our squad."

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