Five exceptional members of the Tennessee soccer squad have earned a spot on the esteemed 2026 SEC preseason watch list. This recognition includes midfielder Dakota Brown, junior midfielder Ines Derrien, junior goalkeeper Cayden Norris, forward Shae O'Rourke, and fifth-year forward Kylee Simmons, underscoring the team's depth and talent as they prepare for the upcoming season.
The recognized athletes bring a blend of experience and skill to the team. Dakota Brown, a seasoned midfielder, is entering her fifth year with the program, having appeared in 39 matches with 27 starts and tying for the most assists in 2025. Ines Derrien, a junior midfielder, has made a significant impact since transferring from USC, tallying five goals and five assists in 40 games, including starting all four NCAA Tournament matches as a freshman. Cayden Norris, a junior goalkeeper, enters her second season at Tennessee, boasting an impressive 13 shutouts and a .793 save percentage in 2025. Shae O'Rourke, another impactful transfer, recorded a brace against North Carolina and a game-winning goal against UCLA before an injury cut her season short. Kylee Simmons, a fifth-year forward, returns after missing the 2025 season due to injury, having previously earned First-Team All-SEC honors in 2023 with 16 goals and eight assists at Missouri.
This collective honor reflects the individual achievements and potential contributions of these five players to the Lady Volunteers' success in the competitive SEC conference. Their diverse skill sets and proven track records are expected to be pivotal in shaping the team's performance and pursuit of championship aspirations in the upcoming collegiate soccer season.
The recognition of these outstanding athletes serves as a testament to their dedication, hard work, and the promising future of the Lady Volunteers soccer program. Their commitment to excellence inspires their teammates and embodies the spirit of collegiate sports, where talent and perseverance lead to deserved acclaim and the potential for remarkable achievements.
