Sligo Rovers are delighted to announce the signing of defender Ella Karolak ahead of the 2026 Women’s Premier Division season. The 23-year-old centre back joins the Bit O’Red from the University of Illinois, where she developed into a composed and reliable defender, recognised for her leadership, communication, and consistency in defensive duels.
Karolak spent four seasons with the Illini as a Division I athlete, making 52 starts and accumulating 4,620 minutes of competitive action. She was a three-time Defensive MVP (2022, 2023, 2024), twice named Big Ten Player To Watch, and served on the team’s leadership committee throughout her career. Ella gained experience in the USL W League, helping Detroit City FC claim the Great Lakes Division title in 2025 and being named Defensive Player of the Year with FC Olympia in 2024. Off the pitch, she achieved multiple academic honours, including Big Ten Distinguished Scholar and three-time Academic All-Big Ten selection.
Reflecting on her move to the Showgrounds, Karolak said:
“It’s really exciting to sign for the club. I admire the history on the men’s side, and I want to help create history for the women’s team as well. The league is highly competitive, but I believe our squad can compete at the top level. Sligo is a beautiful town, and the community has been incredibly welcoming.”
On her playing style and what she brings to the team:
“I like to be involved in every phase of play and always want the ball. I’m comfortable on both feet, enjoy dictating play from the back, and am defensively strong. I like to be vocal on the pitch, organising the team and communicating with my teammates. I want to ensure we’re solid at the back while supporting the attack whenever possible.”
Looking ahead to the season and settling in with the squad, she added:
“I’ve seen teams in situations similar to Rovers, where growth and evolution are needed. Many of the club’s objectives align with my own, and I want to help the team make a real impact this season. Off the pitch, I’ve really enjoyed getting to know the squad. Everyone has been welcoming, which has made joining a new environment much easier.”
Rovers manager Gavin Hughes said Karolak immediately stood out for her composure, leadership, and defensive awareness.
“Ella has already, in this short time, led by example and brought real physical presence to our defensive unit. She plays comfortably off either foot and has an excellent range of passing. She sees things and executes them very well, whether short or long.
She is always positive and proactive, and her leadership skillset will be huge for us this season. She is the kind of player who sets the tone for the whole team, particularly within the defensive line.”
With Ella Karolak joining, the squad now stands at twenty-three players 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, Cara Jordan, and Natalie Yoo.
Jack Dempsey