NORMAL, Ill. – Redshirt Sophomore Madi Valenti was named to the United Soccer Coaches NCAA Division I Women's All-Midwest Region Third Team.
Valenti's recognition comes after a record-breaking season in goal for Illinois State in which Valenti became the Redbirds' first Missouri Valley Conference Goalkeeper of the Year since 2013. The St. Charles, Mo. native, played a crucial role in one of the strongest defenses in the nation.
In 2025, Valenti posted 12 shutouts, which is the most from a goalkeeper in both MVC and Illinois State history. Valenti's shutout total ranks as the third most in the entire country. Valenti helped the Redbirds secure 13 shutouts throughout the season, which is the most in school history and ranked tied for the fourth-most in the nation.
Valenti added a save percentage of .853, which ranks as the highest percentage amongst all MVC goalkeepers and the seventh highest in program history. With a career-best of 86 saves across 2025, Valenti tallied the seventh most saves in school history and became the third Redbird to record at least 80 or more saves in two seasons. On Aug. 17, Valenti recorded a career-best 10 saves against Northwestern to become the sixth Redbird to tally a double-digit save total in a single game. Her total also tied for the fourth most in a game from an Illinois State keeper.
This season, Valenti recorded a new school record for goalkeeper minutes played with 1,958 minutes played across the campaign. Valenti also tied the record for the most matches played by a goalkeeper with appearances in all 22 matches for the Redbirds.
Head Coach Raleigh DeRose on Valenti's nomination…
"Madi is a fantastic goalkeeper and leader for our team. She had an incredible season marked with saves, shutouts, and critical moments of leadership. This award is well deserved and has been earned through her talent and commitment to training. Madi is tough, fearless, and carries herself with a competitive spirit at all times. We are proud of her accomplishments, and we are excited to continue to work with her this offseason."
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