Ella is a talented and versatile defensive player headed to NC State in 2027. She shines brightest as a center back, but still performs excellently as a defensive midfielder. Relying on her brain before relying on her legs sees her win the ball back cleanly constantly. This allows her to start attacks from wherever she wins the ball back, including high up the pitch. Wherever she finds herself, she’ll go in to win the ball back with the type of determination that wins fans over. Her quick, short passes open up spaces easily as well. If her potential grows and sharpens in the next few years, she’ll be an unreal player.

Mueller is a defender on the NC Courage 08 ECNL team. She is capable of playing any spot in the back four – could also step into a defensive midfield role. Mueller is a fun player to scout. She’s a pace-setting type of player. When she’s on the ball, she will assess the options and determine if she wants to attack or put her foot on the ball and slow down the tempo. The change of dynamic approach was a key to the success recently for Courage in the ECNL event – and the tactically advanced approach makes her a standout compared to her peers. Her comfort on the ball and defensive skills combined with versatility make her a top recruit from this group.