Caroline Murray Signs with Sporting JAX of USL Division One Gainbridge Super League
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – University of New Hampshire women’s soccer alumnae Caroline Murray ’16 has signed with Sporting Club Jacksonville, the United Soccer League’s expansion franchise announced as the club prepares for its historic debut season in the USL Division One Gainbridge Super League, which alongside NWSL in the highest level of professional soccer in the […]
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – University of New Hampshire women’s soccer alumnae Caroline Murray ’16 has signed with Sporting Club Jacksonville, the United Soccer League’s expansion franchise announced as the club prepares for its historic debut season in the USL Division One Gainbridge Super League, which alongside NWSL in the highest level of professional soccer in the United States.
“Caroline has adapted to many different styles and cultures over the years,” said Sporting JAX head coach Stacey Balaam in the team’s press release. “She is powerful, direct and can play on either wing. She is an exciting, attack-minded player who will undoubtedly cause problems for many defenders. Caroline has the mindset that she is playing every game like it’s her last and you can’t teach that mentality – that is sheer desire.”
Murray has had an outstanding professional career which started in 2016 with Finnish team Sudet Jalkapallo. The New Canaan, Conn., native has also competed in Sweden, Denmark and Iceland. Most recently, she played for Throttur Reykjavik in Iceland, and prior to that, she was with AIK Football in the top division in Sweden.
“I’m really grateful and excited to be joining Sporting Jax!,” said Murray. “I’ve been playing overseas since I graduated UNH and it’s been my dream to play in the United States. It’s something that I’ve been striving for my entire career. I’m especially excited that it’s a new club in the league. It will be fun to be a part of creating a team culture and team identity. I’ve been very impressed with what they are building so far and I’m honored to be a part of it. I think because I’ve been playing overseas for a long time I’m also ready for some of the challenges of being a new team in a league.”
“I’ve been very impressed with the USL Division One Gainbridge Super League,” said Murray. “I’ve been watching a lot of the games and I have a few former teammates playing in it. When I first heard about the league, I knew very quickly that it was a league I wanted to play in. It was a huge goal of mine to get an opportunity.”
“Caroline continues to amaze me!,” said UNH women’s soccer head coach Steve Welham. “She is our “iron woman” and has been developing as a professional player year in and year out. After nearly 10 years of being a pro she seems to keep getting better. She truly loves the game, and her drive is simply unmatched. Caroline is one of our true ‘pioneers’ here at UNH Women’s soccer as she was our first professional player in our program’s history. She has set a very high standard and is no doubt one of the best soccer players in the history of our program. Caroline is a wonderful human being, and we could not be more proud of how she carries herself and how she continues to represent our Wildcat Family at the highest level. So proud of you Caroline for having the courage to follow your dreams!!”
Since Caroline turned pro in 2016 at least seven other UNH women’s soccer players have turned professional. “She has paved the way, and we have a feeling that there will be several more in the near future,” said Welham. “We are looking forward to watching her continued progression in the game.”
Murray had a stellar career at UNH with three goals and 13 assists for 19 points as she started in all 40 games during her two seasons as a Wildcat. She recorded a goal and eight assists as a senior in the 2015 season, when she garnered multiple accolades, including America East Midfielder of the Year, NSCAA Scholar All-East Region Third Team, NSCAA All-Region Third Team and NEWISA Division I All-New England First Team.
She was also selected to the America East All-Conference First Team and All-Academic Team. Murray led the conference in assists and her 10 points ranked second on the team.
In her first year as a Wildcat, Murray recorded two goals and five assists as UNH won the America East tournament title when she scored the game winning goal to give UNH their first women’s soccer championship in school history. She was selected to the NSCAA All-East Academic Third Team, NEWISA All-New England Second Team, America East All-Conference Second Team and AE All-Championship Team.
“I’m very thankful for my time at UNH and especially Steve Welham and Michelle Bronner and everything they did for me,” said Murray. “They are the two people who make that program a great one. I’m always so proud to have played for UNH and I’m excited to see more Wildcats in the professional ranks!”
FISU FEATURE SERIES: ‘There’s always something you can improve’
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In July, five members of the Bisons track and field team will take to Germany for the FISU World University Games. Over the next six weeks, Bison Sports will cover their journey and memories and moments that matter to them. This week’s feature is on assistant coach Gee-ef Nkwonta. Throughout […]
In July, five members of the Bisons track and field team will take to Germany for the FISU World University Games. Over the next six weeks, Bison Sports will cover their journey and memories and moments that matter to them. This week’s feature is on assistant coach Gee-ef Nkwonta.
Throughout his life, Bisons track and field assistant coach Gee-ef Nkwonta has embodied a “jack of all trades” mindset. One look at his sporting resume proves this to be true.
He’s ran the gamete, from soccer to basketball, to track and field and most recently, golf. An extremely intelligent person with a competitive edge, his life-long learning mindset pairs perfectly with his athletic edge.
“I was way too aggressively competitive. It was bad. I think that’s why I’m like this now,” he chuckles.
“Because it was so debilitating. I got in so much trouble for it. It went from soccer to all the other sports in school. There’s a picture of me running in the Manitoba Marathon when I was in grade five. It’s been pretty full circle. I think that’s the biggest reason why I’ve been able to keep going and why I’ve been able to pick up all the sports, because I did all of them.”
Nkwonta was a sensational basketball player for Fort Richmond Collegiate in high school, and that’s the route he originally thought he would take after high school. But life had other plans, swerving his trajectory from the hard court, to the track towards the end of his time at FRC.
“I just got into track because I was trying to get out of a test, and I ended up qualifying for things,” he admits. “I went to provincials and I did okay, I think I got third in triple jump.”
Nkwonta was still dead set on basketball heading into university, but there was one problem. He needed to get into a gym, and passes were expensive. Cue Wilfred Sam-King Jr.
A former captain on the Bisons track and field team and elite sprinter, Sam-King Jr. was like “a big brother” to Nkwonta. He convinced the upstart athlete to pursue track and field, originally as a way to get more gym time. The floodgates opened from there.
“Working out with [Sam-King Jr.], and doing all that stuff with him, it just turned out well. I was like, track isn’t bad. I like that aspect of it being on you. With sports, and with life, it’s just what I grew up doing, taking accountability for all of your actions, and figuring it out. I found that pretty cool.”
As Nkwonta got going in the sport, he embraced “the challenge” that jumping provided. It was the right sport at the right time in his life, and from there, he was all-in. He still competes in triple jump to this day.
“I love that you can’t master it. There’s always something you can improve. That’s why I started it, that’s why I still do it.”
Nkwonta was admittedly never the most athletic, or naturally gifted member of Manitoba’s roster. Heck, when he first debuted in the roster, he was 5’6″, and 130 pounds before hitting a major growth spurt later in his rookie season.
But he never let his size, or other factors get him down. Instead, he focused on his technique, and a sound overall approach.
As he puts it, it was about “controlling the controllables,” and honing in on the little details. It’s a mindset that he continues to embody to this day with the athletes that he coaches.
By the time Nkwonta graduated, he was a national medalist, and his leap of 15.07 metres at the Golden Bear Open in 2018 was the third farthest in school history at the time. He’s one of just four triple jumpers in Bisons history to extend past 15 metres.
“That was weird. I never would have thought that would be something that happened. I have a weird knack for trying to conquer things that I don’t think can be conquered, or trying to prove to myself that I can do something,” he reflects when looking back on his storied UM career.
“It wasn’t like I was trying to go after a distance. It was more about how good can I be at this thing? I’m such a perfectionist when it comes to myself – actually I’m a perfectionist when it comes to everybody, some people I just let them get away with it more. A sport like triple jump, you realize that it isn’t about how fast or how strong you are. Those things help, but you get the results by trying to be technically smooth.”
‘There was a certain level of honesty’
Nkwonta’s love for the sport, and background as a teacher have been an ideal formula post-graduation. In a short span of time, he’s become one of the most respected coaching minds in the country.
Notably, in 2023, he helped Madisson Lawrence win double gold at nationals in the pentathlon and high jump, setting a school record in the latter. She capped a legendary U SPORTS career off this past year with another pentathlon gold, along with silver in high jump and bronze in triple jump.
A former U SPORTS Assistant Coach of the Year, Nkwonta also helped sprinters Jordan Soufi and Tyrell Davis crack the speed code in 2024, going 1-2 in the 60m on home soil at nationals. It was the first time in school history that Manitoba earned gold and silver in the event.
“In the moment, I was like what’s going on? I think that was big for many reasons,” Nkwonta says of the 1-2 in the 60.
“Jordan obviously getting one, Tyrell coming back from all his injuries and wondering if he was going to be able to run again. For both of them to do it at home, I was just happy that they were happy, and had family here for it.”
Nkwonta is an exceptional communicator and he knows his athletes well. It’s helped him understand the unique needs of each. Lawrence is a perfect example.
“[We talk] probably more than [Nkwonta] would like,” chuckled Lawrence prior to her record-breaking 2022-23 season. “I have a lot of questions and I don’t think before I speak sometimes.”
“I think having a coach who was also my friend has worked out well, because there was a certain level of honesty I could have with him,” she added. “I didn’t have to build up to it because it was already there. I think it worked well on the track, because if I had questions about something, or wanted to know something, I wouldn’t hesitate to ask.”
Nkwonta and Madisson Lawrence at practice. Photo by Zachary Peters
Nkwonta’s athlete-centred approach is rooted in his own experiences as a Bison. Alanna Boudreau, a “leader and mentor” who’s still on UM’s staff, was his coach, and has been a major influence.
“Alanna was instrumental in everything that I came to. I wouldn’t be here without her, taking the chance, pushing me when I didn’t want to be pushed, showing up when I didn’t think anyone would. It’s all the things you want from a coach. We understood each other so much that she knew what I needed even when I didn’t know I needed it,” Nkwonta says.
“She knew how to get a response out of me. I think that was the best part about our relationship. She knew me, I knew her. We connected. She’s made me not just a better athlete, but a better person. She’s influenced my coaching a lot. I understand that I am far from perfect. I understand that I am probably no one’s ideal athlete. I think the only ideal thing about me as an athlete is that I am coordinated, and if someone asks me to do something, I can generally do it in a couple of tries. She never really faltered, whether I was giving her my best or my worst.”
In two weeks, Nkwonta will take the next step in his coaching career. He, along with Bisons Daxx Turner, Lara Denbow, Jordan Soufi and Dawson Mann will represent Canada on the world stage at the FISU Summer World University Games in Bochum, Germany from July 21-27.
He will coach combined events and jumps as part of a ten person coaching staff, embracing the opportunity.
“I’m just hoping it leads to more. I’m the geek who’s going to be sitting at the warm-up track watching everyone warm up and learning what everyone’s doing. The meet will be fun, but that’s going to be the best part, meeting everyone from around the world and chatting, and getting to connect with people.”
Four ‘Bows Headed to Water Polo World Championships
Four members of the University of Hawai’i women’s water polo team are set to represent their countries at the World Aquatics Championships in Singapore. Ema Vernoux and Camille Radosavljevic will compete for France, while Agatha Weston and Gabrielle Doyle will play for New Zealand. The tournament runs from July 10 to July 23. Vernoux and […]
Four members of the University of Hawai’i women’s water polo team are set to represent their countries at the World Aquatics Championships in Singapore. Ema Vernoux and Camille Radosavljevic will compete for France, while Agatha Weston and Gabrielle Doyle will play for New Zealand. The tournament runs from July 10 to July 23. Vernoux and Radosavljevic have prior experience on the international stage, both having competed in the Paris Olympics. Doyle and Weston also recently made impactful contributions during their collegiate seasons.
By the Numbers
Ema Vernoux scored the first goal for France in their Olympic debut, leading UH with 78 goals last season.
Agatha Doyle recorded 15 goals and 10 assists last season while finishing with 34 steals as a freshman.
Yes, But
Both Vernoux and Radosavljevic bring Olympic experience, which may give France a competitive edge. However, New Zealand’s roster also includes former ‘Bows, adding depth and familiarity to their squad.
State of Play
The women’s water polo competition starts on July 10 in Singapore, featuring multiple international teams.
New Zealand is grouped with Australia, Italy, and Singapore, while France competes against Spain, Great Britain, and South Africa.
What’s Next
As the championship approaches, the focus will be on the performance of these athletes and their contributions to their teams. Success could influence future selections for international competitions.
Bottom Line
The participation of these four players underscores the growing talent pool in women’s water polo, reflecting both their individual achievements and the strong program at the University of Hawai’i.
The 2025 Bowerman Finalists and Watch List for men’s and women’s NCAA track and field
It’s time for a look at potential winners of the Bowerman, an annual award presented to the most outstanding athletes in collegiate track and field. Here’s the latest on some of the best in DI track and field. THE BOWERMAN: Complete history of the track and field honor Finalists gender athlete school events Women Pamela Kosgei […]
The 2025 winners will be announced on Thursday, Dec. 18 at the 2025 USTFCCCA convention at the Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center in Grapevine, Texas.
Past watch lists
Watch list update No. 7
The seventh update to the Bowerman women’s watch list was announced on Wednesday, June 4, with the men’s watch list announced on Thursday, June 5.
When Aussie Stinger Hayley Ballesty’s extended family gather at a family function, an outsider could easily think they’re attending a Sportsman’s Lunch. Besides Ballesty, who made her Australia debut in 2022, and who has played professionally in Italy and Spain, her great-uncle John Ballesty represented the Wallabies in nine Tests from 1968-69 before switching to […]
When Aussie Stinger Hayley Ballesty’s extended family gather at a family function, an outsider could easily think they’re attending a Sportsman’s Lunch.
Besides Ballesty, who made her Australia debut in 2022, and who has played professionally in Italy and Spain, her great-uncle John Ballesty represented the Wallabies in nine Tests from 1968-69 before switching to rugby league where he starred with the (now Sydney) Roosters outfit that lost the 1972 grand final to Manly.
Her mother’s cousin is Australia’s first Winter Olympic gold medallist – and perhaps sport’s most recognisable ‘last man standing’ underdog, Stephen Bradbury. While much has been said about Bradbury’s 2002 gold, when the speedskater almost nonchalantly crossed the finish line after the 1000m field was taken out in a collision, he also has a 1994 Lillehammer Winter Olympic Games bronze for the 5000m relay.
The 25-year-old said her famous relatives have not only inspired her to be the best she can, but they’ve also provided a source of constant encouragement.
“John is my dad’s uncle and it’s because of him my entire family are Roosters supporters even though we live in Manly Sea Eagles territory,” said Ballesty with a grin. “He’s a bit of an inspiration, having had an amazing rugby union career with the Wallabies and then his time in league.
“My family is very close and it means a lot to me that he follows my sporting career closely.
“I also see mum’s cousin, Stephen Bradbury, at big family events and I appreciate he tries to keep in touch with my water polo career and monitors how I’m travelling. What I’ve taken from his gold medal is this: when opportunity comes you have to be ready to take it – and he definitely was.”
As for her own place in Australian sport, Ballesty has no problem articulating what it means to be a member of the Aussie Stingers.
“The biggest takeaway is the kind of person a Stinger is,” she said. “I have really put in the work to try to be the best version of myself, and to also be a role model to the younger girls who are coming through.
“I do that because I remember how important those role models were for me. I would love to do my bit to help continue that legacy for the next generation.”
And while Ballesty’s bloodlines suggest she was born to excel in elite sport, she’s needed to draw upon a reservoir of resilience to overcome some brutal setbacks which include a shoulder injury that caused her to miss out on last year’s Olympic silver medal campaign.
HAYLEY BALLESTY IS NSWIS PROUD
“What I like about being an NSWIS scholarship holder is the incredible support system I have at NSWIS. I can be the best version of myself in the pool because NSWIS cares about the whole picture, not just the athlete. I also don’t believe I would have recovered from any of my major injuries without NSWIS.”
“When I was 19 and transitioning from junior to senior water polo, I had a hip injury and was out of the water for 18 months – which was really difficult,” she said. “Then, unfortunately, I dislocated my shoulder during a game in 2023 and it needed reconstruction surgery.
“It probably took me over a year to get back to where I was prior to that injury. In total, I was out of the water for nine months. It was tough, but when I had my hip injury our then NSWIS coach, Mel Rippon, told me: ‘you know, injuries like this make or break athletes – and I think its going to make you.’
“And I held onto that thought [four years later when I injured my shoulder]. I just thought ‘this isn’t going to break me.’ And while I missed so much, doing the rehab and working so hard to return showed me I didn’t want to stop . . . I still had so much to give.”
When asked how she felt watching her teammates – her friends – slug it out against Spain in the Paris Olympics’ gold medal decider, she simply says: ‘mixed feelings’.
“It was extremely difficult,” she said of watching from her couch as Australia took silver. “It was really weird because those are, like, some of my closest friends, and I was so happy for them because they did so extremely well.
“And I had so much pride when I was watching the Games. I just knew how much everyone had poured into that performance, and I wanted them to win. Like them, I poured a lot of myself into trying to get to Paris. And while I was happy, it was bitter-sweet because as an athlete you want to be at those big events.”
Ballesty has been selected to compete in the World Aquatics Championships which start in Singapore on July 11. The squad consists of 10 players from the Paris squad, while the selections of NSWIS duo Olivia Mitchell and Alexie Lambert, along with Western Australia’s Pippa Pedley signal the next generation’s emergence.
Hayley Ballesty in action against Hungary during her first World Aquatics Championship campaign where 8000 Hungarians cheered on their team creating an incredible atmosphere.
This is her second world championships campaign, and Ballesty’s advice to the Stinger’s newcomers is to be prepared for the emotions that come with a huge event.
“I was quite young, 20-21, at my first world championships in Hungary. While I wouldn’t say I was naïve, I was unaware of how big it was,” she said. “Our quarter final was played against Hungary in Budapest and there was 8000 Hungarians cheering their team on.
“When they started singing the Hungarian national anthem, that’s when it hit me. I thought: ‘like, this is a really big deal.’ It was one of the most powerful things I’ve ever witnessed.
“So, I think my selection for Singapore carries more significance for me because I know what it actually is and how big a deal it is.”
Though, Ballesty, the latest member of her family’s sporting dynasty, has worked like few others to be there.
HAYLEY BALLESTY FAST FACTS
Ballesty is studying her Bachelor of Landscape Architecture at the University of NSW.
The degree appealed to her because it provides an opportunity to combine Ballesty’s passion for science, art and the environment.
When she graduates Ballesty would like to work in environmental rehabilitation because she believes there’ll be an increased need for it due to rapid way cities are growing and impacting the environment and ecosystem.
She says one of the best aspects of playing professionally in Spain and Italy is having friends all over the world.
While her teammates say she speaks fluent Italian, Ballesty insists she understands the language better than she speaks it: “Yeah, I know when the coach isn’t happy with me [laughs].”
The team she played for, Rapallo, is situated on the Italian Riviera (Mediterranean Sea) and Ballesty loves the lifestyle.
Third Annual Back To School Supply Drive and Sand Volleyball Tourney Set for July 16 in San Antonio – Tejano Nation
Photo by Matej Bizjak on Pexels.com SAN ANTONIO, TX — The Third Annual Back To School Supply Drive and Sand Volleyball Tournament is officially set for Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at Sideliner’s Bar & Grill in San Antonio. Hosted by Tejano Up Radio and Hot Tejano, this exciting and family-friendly event will bring together the […]
SAN ANTONIO, TX — The Third Annual Back To School Supply Drive and Sand Volleyball Tournament is officially set for Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at Sideliner’s Bar & Grill in San Antonio. Hosted by Tejano Up Radio and Hot Tejano, this exciting and family-friendly event will bring together the Tejano community for a good cause — helping local students gear up for the upcoming school year.
Team registration begins at 5:30 p.m. at the popular venue located at 15360 Henderson Pass. Whether you’re a seasoned volleyball player or just looking for a good time, all are welcome to participate. Early team registration and event inquiries can be directed to tejanoupradio@gmail.com or by calling 210.213.2557.
Hot Tejano Operations Manager and Tejano ROOTS Hall of Fame broadcaster Chris “Tejano Man” Tristan shared the vision behind the event in an exclusive interview with Tejano Nation.
“We want to invite everyone out on Wednesday at Sideliner’s Bar & Grill,” said Tristan. “Hot Tejano and Tejano Up Radio are joining forces for this back-to-school supply drive. We want everyone to come out and participate. Whether you’re a media company, radio station, organization, or just a group of friends — bring your team and be part of something that makes a difference.”
He emphasized that the event is open to all skill levels.
“You don’t have to be a pro. If you’re in a league or just play for fun, we invite you to join. We’re trying to fill up these backpacks with things kids need to go back to school — and if we don’t jump on it now, who will?”
Attendees can expect a festive atmosphere, sand volleyball action, and appearances from Tejano music stars including Stefani Montiel, Gabriel Zavala, and more.
Donations of school supplies will be collected at the event. Suggested items include:
No. 2 pencils
Colored pencils
Pencil cases
Folders
Erasers
Notebooks
Scissors
Backpacks
Crayons
And other essential items
For those who prefer to contribute monetarily, donations can be sent via Venmo (@TejanoUpRadio) or CashApp ($TejanoUpRadio).
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to support students across San Antonio and Central Texas while enjoying music, great food, and a little friendly competition in the sand.
Follow Tejano Nation on Facebook, X(formerly Twitter), and Instagram, and subscribe to our YouTube channel to keep up with everything Tejano. Listen to new Tejano music first with our Spotify playlists and iHeartRadio podcast.
Copyright 2025 Tejano Nation. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without expressed written permission from Tejano Nation.
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Topeka native, KU All-American to join Washburn volleyball coaching staff
TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) – A local All-American is set to join the Washburn volleyball coaching staff for the upcoming season. According to an announcement from Washburn volleyball coach Chris Herron, the team has added Camryn Turner as a part time assistant coach beginning Aug. 1. “Cam is first an outstanding person who also happens to […]
TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) – A local All-American is set to join the Washburn volleyball coaching staff for the upcoming season.
According to an announcement from Washburn volleyball coach Chris Herron, the team has added Camryn Turner as a part time assistant coach beginning Aug. 1.
“Cam is first an outstanding person who also happens to be a two-time DI All-American. We are very excited to have her join our program! She will bring her own ideas and energy and fits right into the culture here,” Herron said of Turner. “We will also have her set the ‘B’ Side this fall to help her in her preparations for her own upcoming season.”
Turner most recently completed her first professional season with the Grand Rapids Rise in the Pro Volleyball Federation (PVF). Turner was selected 22nd overall in the third round of the 2024 draft. She appeared in 22 matches, recorded 569 assists with eight double-doubles.
Following the 2026 Ichabod season, Turner will continue playing in the PVF.
Washburn volleyball coach Chris Herron announced that the team has added Camryn Turner to the coaching staff.(Kansas Athletics)
Turner had a four-year career at the University of Kansas. While at Kansas, she was an AVCA All-American in each of her final two seasons (2023, 2024). She tallied 3,758 assists, 1,067 digs and 279 kills in her career and was named the Big 12 Setter of the Year in 2023.
The newest addition to Washburn’s staff graduated from Seaman High School where she was the all-time leader in assists and kills. Turner was the 2019 Player of the Year for the Centennial League and was a 5A First Team All-State selection while also playing basketball.
“I am so excited for this opportunity to see volleyball from a different perspective. Not only that but getting to coach with an amazing group of girls and coaches who will push me to grow, and I hope I can do the same in return,” Turner said.
| SportsCenter
