Sligo Rovers are delighted to announce the signing of midfielder Natalie Yoo ahead of the 2026 Women’s Premier Division season. The 24-year-old joins the Bit O’Red after spending three seasons as a Division 1 athlete with the Texas A&M Aggies, advancing to the NCAA Elite Eight and making regular contributions over multiple campaigns. She also played her final graduate year at the University of San Diego, where she was team captain and part of the programme’s rebuild under a new coaching staff.
Yoo completed her bachelor’s degree in Business Marketing before adding a graduate qualification, demonstrating her commitment and discipline both on and off the pitch. Born in Southern California, Yoo holds dual nationality and has Korean heritage, and she was invited to join a South Korean national development squad, highlighting her recognition at international level.
Reflecting on her move to Rovers, Yoo said:
“It feels really exciting and is a dream of mine to play at this level. I spoke with Ciaran Fadden, assistant manager, about what I can bring to the team. I’m hungry to do well, and I’ve heard a lot about the league. It felt like the right environment to push myself.”
Describing her playing style, she added:
“I’d describe myself as competitive and someone who likes to be centre of the action in midfield, whether dropping deeper or supporting the attack. I’m creative and technical, enjoy taking on players, making forward runs into the box, and playing incisive passes. I’m comfortable on both feet and always look to make an impact for my team.”
On settling in with the squad, Yoo said:
“It’s been a bit of a culture shock, but everyone has been really welcoming. The dressing room has been great, which has made settling in much easier.”
Looking ahead to the season, Yoo explained:
“I want to help the team win games and compete at the top end of the table. Personally, I want to keep improving every week and contribute with goals and assists.”
Rovers manager Gavin Hughes believes Yoo adds balance and drive to the midfield.
“Natalie is technically very strong and fearless in possession. She loves getting on the ball, drives at defences, and brings creativity to everything she does. She has a great mentality and great energy, and we are excited to see her in the league.”
On why she is the right fit at this stage of the season, Hughes added:
“We trust that her attitude and desire to make things happen will give us another dynamic in the final third. She wants responsibility and thrives in competitive environments, which is exactly what we need.”
Regarding her impact off the pitch, he said:
“She is focused, professional, and eager to learn. Those standards raise the level within the group, and that is important for us as we continue to build.”
With Natalie Yoo joining, the squad now stands at twenty-two players strong ahead of the 2026 Women’s Premier Division season, joining earlier signings Abby Rooney, Ava Hallinan, Alice Lillie, Bonnie McKiernan, Emma Duffy, Leah Kelly, Anna McDaniel, Kelsey McQuillan, Rachel McGoldrick, Katie Melly, Emma Hansberry, Keela Scanlon, Ciara Henry, Cara King, Jessica Casey, Alana Doherty, Keeva Flynn, Ivana McMahon, Sydney Stephens, Manu Baptista Filipe, and Cara Jordan.
Jack Dempsey