KALAMAZOO, Mich. -- The Western Michigan women's soccer team and head coach Lewis Robinson have announced the return of four student-athletes for the 2024 season. Seniors Jenna Blackburn, Jen Blitchok, Brielle Gomez and Abby Werthman will utilize their extra year of eligibility and return as fifth-year seniors next year. The four played an integral role in helping the Broncos secure their first ever regular season Mid-American Conference title. 

Blackburn had a phenomenal 2023 season, totaling 18 points on six goals and six assists. She tied for the team lead in assists. The veteran forward netted five goals and handed out five assists in 11 conference games. Following the season, Blackburn was named to the All-MAC Second Team and earned College Sports Communicators Academic All-District honors. 

Blitchok finished the 2023 campaign with 24 points on nine goals and six assists, leading the team in points and goals, while tying for the team lead in assists. She tallied 17 of those points (six goals, five assists) in conference play, which led to her being named First Team All-MAC. Additionally, Blitchok is a strong academically, as she was named to the CSC Academic All-District Team and is on the ballot for Academic All-American status. 

Gomez spearheaded a back line that was among the best in the country. On the season, the Broncos posted nine shutouts and allowed just 16 total goals. The defense stiffened even more in conference play, as the team collected six clean sheets and allowed just six goals. For her efforts, she joined Blackburn on the All-MAC Second Team. 

Werthman was exceptional in her first season in the Brown and Gold, ending the year with 15 points on five goals and five assists. In conference play, she was third on the team in points with nine. In 11 MAC games, she scored three times and recorded three assists. With that, she was named to the All-MAC First Team. 

The Broncos return a majority of the roster from last season's championship team and are currently fundraising for a foreign trip to Spain this summer. To help support the Broncos on their foreign trip, click here.