Georgia Soccer just took another major step forward—and this time, it’s Kennesaw State setting the tone. The Owls have officially signed seven high-impact recruits for the 2026 season, creating one of the most geographically diverse and accomplished classes in program history. For local families, youth players, and fans across the state, this moment represents a meaningful shift in the competitive landscape of college soccer in Georgia.

Head coach Chris Cahill made it clear: this class isn’t just about filling spots—it’s about redefining the program’s identity, raising standards, and building a sustainable recruiting pipeline in Georgia and beyond.

“After losing a large senior class, I believe this group will make an impact quickly,” Cahill said. “Each will help us set our identity for years to come.”

With Georgia poised to become a national soccer hub ahead of the 2026 World Cup, these signings feel perfectly timed.

A New Era for Georgia Soccer

Kennesaw State’s 2026 recruiting class reflects the rapid growth of the sport in Georgia. Youth soccer participation continues to surge across metro Atlanta, and ASN has covered the rise of elite development hubs such as Atlanta United’s academy, GSSA programs, and nationally competitive ECNL clubs.

The Owls’ incoming class includes players from Georgia, Florida, Tennessee, Quebec, British Columbia, and even the Jamaican national youth system. In a region rich with talent, these additions elevate both the local and national profile of KSU women’s soccer.

Below is a deep dive into each new signing and why this group represents a major shift in the Georgia Soccer ecosystem.

Meet the Class: Seven Recruits Who Signal a Big Leap Forward

Melianne Berthe – Forward – Quebec, Canada

Berthe arrives from one of Canada’s most successful youth academies, CS Longueuil—the No. 1 ranked club in both Quebec and across Canada in 2023–2024. She brings:

• 2025 Nationals experience
• Team Quebec selection
• High school MVP and top-three goal scorer

Why she matters:
Her pace and finishing ability add immediate attacking power. International-caliber forwards don’t often land at mid-major programs—this is a coup for KSU.

Jaclyn Bessman – Midfielder – Jacksonville, Florida

A proven winner from Creekside High School and Jacksonville FC, Bessman brings:

• 2024 TT7 National Title
• 2024 7A State Championship
• WPSL experience with Jacksonville Armada FC

Why she matters:
Her combination of technical skill and high-pressure match experience gives the Owls a midfielder ready to contribute from day one.

Sydney Delbo – Midfielder – Brentwood, Tennessee

A four-year high school starter and TSC ECNL standout, Delbo is one of the most polished midfielders in the class.

• Top Midfielder Award (2024–25)
• Four-time ECNL Nationals competitor
• Two-time Future Stars selection

Why she matters:
Her ECNL resume is elite. Expect her to become the engine of KSU’s possession game.

Sian Kellier – Defender – Davie, Florida / Jamaican National Team

One of the most accomplished recruits in the class, Kellier brings international pedigree, having represented Jamaica at the U15, U17, and U20 levels.

• ECNL conference champion
• State finalist with NSU University School
• Four-time sprint relay champion in track & field

Why she matters:
Power. Pace. Versatility. A defender with national team experience instantly elevates KSU’s back line.

Aaliyah McDiarmid – Midfielder – Surrey, British Columbia

McDiarmid may be the most intriguing signing of the group—her résumé reads like a world traveler’s.

• Trained with Real Avilés in Spain
• Gothia Cup champion (Sweden)
• TST semifinalist at just 17 years old
• 2024 PACWEST champion
• Two-time Provincial champion

Why she matters:
She has played everywhere—and performed everywhere. Her technical ability is next-level.

Ashley Tan – Defender – Coquitlam, British Columbia

Another standout from Coquitlam Metro-Ford SC, Tan arrives with:

• League1 BC professional experience
• B.C. Soccer Provincial Development selection
• Three-time Provincials champion
• Two-time Nationals semifinalist

Why she matters:
A defender with professional experience is rare in the college game. Tan brings tactical intelligence and composure beyond her age.

Leah Wetherington – Forward – Marietta, Georgia

The lone Georgia signing—and a big win for local recruiting. Wetherington starred at Kell High School and played ECNL for ATL Fire.

• Four-year varsity starter
• Three-time captain
• Leading scorer in 2024
• Multi-sport athlete (flag football, cross country)

Why she matters:
Her athleticism and leadership are tailor-made for immediate impact. Plus, securing local talent is essential to growing KSU’s footprint in Georgia Soccer.

What This Means for Georgia Soccer

This recruiting class signals something bigger than just roster turnover.

1. Georgia continues rising as a national soccer hub

With Atlanta United, GSSA’s expansion, ECNL dominance, and the 2026 FIFA World Cup coming, the state’s soccer ecosystem is booming.

(External authority link suggestion: FIFA’s 2026 World Cup site: https://www.fifa.com/worldcup/)

2. KSU is becoming a destination, not a fallback

Pulling talent from Canada, Jamaica, and elite ECNL programs shows momentum and ambition.

3. Local talent will benefit

Players like Wetherington highlight the increasingly competitive nature of high school and club soccer in Georgia.

4. More national-team experience is entering the program

Both Kellier and McDiarmid bring valuable international exposure, raising the team’s ceiling.

Next Steps for KSU and Georgia Soccer Fans

Between now and the start of the 2026 season, fans should watch for:

• Spring exhibition debut for early enrollees
• Summer training camp position battles
• Tactical shifts under Coach Cahill
• Breakthrough candidates from ECNL, GA, and Canadian leagues

ASN will continue tracking KSU’s roster moves, preseason form, and Georgia-connected storylines as the 2026 season approaches.

Related Stories on AtlantaSoccer.News

• Atlanta United’s 2026 Schedule: Every Match, Every Moment
• GSSA Partners with Marcet Football Academy in Spain
• Georgia High School Soccer: Early Standouts for 2026

Join the Conversation

What do you think of Kennesaw State’s 2026 recruiting class?
Which player are you most excited to watch next season?

Share your thoughts on social media or drop a comment below — the Georgia Soccer community is ready to talk.

Author: Quique Lopez

Quique Lopez doesn’t just cover soccer—he deconstructs it with the precision of a veteran and the wit of a storyteller. A former player who sees the pitch as both a tactical chessboard and a cultural stage, Quique balances sharp critiques with a genuine love for the game’s soul. He’s as quick to call out the ego of a superstar as he is to find the hidden beauty in a local derby.