The University of Minnesota Crookston soccer program has signed five newcomers for the 2026 class, under second-year head coach Danny Burstein. The recruits include Ell Furlong (MF), Jillian Muehlberger (F), Lilly Oelrich (D), Iris Osei-Tutu (D), and Marasia Warren (F). This signing class aims to build on last season's successes, which included the team鈥檚 most wins since 2022 and several close contests. Key returning players include Emmah Burnes and leading goal-scorer Elise Lefers, providing a foundation as the team looks to enhance its performance.

By the Numbers
  • Furlong scored three goals in two games at Shepherd University, with a perfect shot conversion rate.
  • Muehlberger netted 11 goals and five assists in her last season, including three game-winning goals.
State of Play
  • The Golden Eagles improved their competitive performance in the 2025 season, achieving their highest win total since 2022.
  • Recent recruits were strategically chosen to address key areas of need, blending international talent with local athletes.
What's Next

The newcomers will officially join the squad for the upcoming fall season, with hopes of boosting the team's goal-scoring capabilities and overall competitive edge. The coaching staff will assess their integration during preseason practices.

Bottom Line

These signings represent a pivotal step for Minnesota Crookston, aiming to enhance team performance by building on last season's momentum and the coaching focus on developing a stronger roster for future success.