NORMAL, Ill. – Illinois State soccer head coach Raleigh DeRose and the Redbird soccer program have announced their 2026 signing class.
With the 2026 class, DeRose and her staff added two players to the Redbirds squad with the additions of Bailey Leach (Pleasant Plains, Ill.) and Brooklyn Ludwig (Lombard, Ill.).
Bailey Leach, a forward/midfielder, joins the Redbirds after scoring a school record of 50 goals in her junior season. Along with her goal total, Leach added a team third-best 20 assists. A native of Pleasant Plains, Ill., Leach is a two-time State Journal-Register's Small School Girls Soccer Player of the Year.
"Bailey is an athletic and versatile attacking player with exceptional speed and grit. These qualities have helped her become one of the top goal scorers in the state of Illinois. Her character is unmatched, and her relentless work ethic and drive have shaped her into the outstanding player we are thrilled to welcome into our program. We are excited to have Bailey join the Redbird family and look forward to seeing her thrive here in Normal." DeRose added.
Brooklyn Ludwig, a midfielder from Lombard, Ill., will join Illinois State in 2026. Ludwig has previously played with the Sockers FC club team. Ludwig was a key contributor to the Sockers FC as they played nationally ranked competition and helped the team qualify for the 2024 Girls Academy Playoffs. Ludwig also played at the semi-professional level with Chicago House AC in the 2025 season.
"Brooklyn is a tenacious and strong defensive midfielder with excellent instincts both on and off the ball. Her skill set has shaped her into a vital player for her team. Her commitment to continuous development is unmatched, as she constantly seeks new challenges to elevate her game. Brooklyn's toughness and resiliency, combined with her composure on the ball, make her a standout competitor. We are excited to see her take the field as a Redbird and make an impact within our program." DeRose stated.
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