Women’s Soccer Inks Three on National Signing DayWomen’s Soccer Inks Three on National Signing Day

Women’s Soccer Inks Three on National Signing Day

by Nick Porcelli

ORLANDO – The UCF women's soccer family has grown, and the team’s influence has continued to expand throughout the country as head coach Tiffany Roberts Sahaydak announced the program's 2025 class on National Signing Day. Three incredible players, Kalena Bellini, Natalie Leon and Sophia May, have chosen to join the Black and Gold.

With the departure of several key seniors, these three players will provide much-needed reinforcements for the Knights beginning in the 2025 season.

“Overall, this 2025 class brings a unique mix of talent, experience, and grit that will elevate our team and uphold our standard of excellence. They’re not only skilled players but also individuals who will push their teammates and contribute to our team culture and values,” Roberts Sahaydak said. “We’re excited to welcome them to UCF and look forward to the impact they’ll make on and off the field as we continue competing for championships.”

Kalena Bellini
Forward | Lehi, Utah | Wasatch SC | Skyridge HS | Kinesiology

Coming from Utah, Bellini brings to the Knights amazing scoring ability, a resume of big wins and international experience.

Bellini was the top goal-scorer on her high school team that won a conference championship and made the state finals for the first time in school history. She played a key role in helping her Wasatch SC team win back-to-back national championships. Earlier this year, she was called up to join the Brazilian U-17 National team, including during the U-17 World Cup.

Bellini possesses a strong vision for the game and great offensive ability. On her decision to join UCF, she said, “The quality of the coaching staff at UCF has been a crucial factor in my decision. The coaches are the best I’ve ever met, and their dedication and support have strongly influenced my choice.”

“Kalena brings international experience from the U-17 Brazil National Team most recently playing in the U-17 World Cup. She has an exciting presence in the attack. Her skill, toughness, and eye for goal will add a dynamic element, creating scoring opportunities for both her and her teammates,” Roberts Sahaydak said.

Natalie Leon
Defender | San Clemente, Calif. | Slammers FC | Santa Margarita Catholic HS | Marketing/Digital Media

Moving from one coast to another, Leon joins the Knights after completing a successful high school and club career. She helped lead Santa Margarita Catholic to three division titles, a California State championship, and a No. 2 national ranking in 2022. She also played a key role in helping her club team, Slammers FC, make the Elite Clubs National League (ECNL) national tournament four straight times. She helped her team reach the Sweet 16 in 2022 and the quarterfinals in 2023. She was also part of the Olympic Development program from 2021 to 2023.

A skilled defender with great field vision, she brings a lot to the UCF backfield. “UCF soccer offers me an opportunity for personal growth, challenges, and playing the sport, I love at a high level under the leadership of an amazing coaching staff.” Leon said on her decision to join the Knights.

“Natalie is a versatile and smart defender who fits perfectly into our style of play. Her toughness and ability to defend 1v1 will make her a standout on our backline, and she’ll be a key piece to our defense,” Roberts Sahaydak added.

Sophia May
Midfield | Chula Vista, Calif. | Rebels SC | Eastlake HS | Biomedical Science

Like Leon, May also comes to UCF from California. In 2021 she helped lead Albion SC to a GA National Championship. She has since led Rebels SC to several successful seasons. She helped her high school win a division title and was named CIF Second-Team last year.

A strong defensive midfielder, she can also advance into a more attacking position. “I chose UCF from the second I stepped on campus, it felt like home.” May said on her decision to come to UCF.

“Sophia is a highly technical midfielder whose savvy play elevates the attack. Her ability to find space and create goal scoring opportunities will make her a true asset to our team,” Roberts Sahaydak concluded.