Exciting News for UNC Women’s Soccer: Bella Gaetino Selected for U-20 National Team Training Camp
CHAPEL HILL, N.C. – In an exhilarating turn of events, Bella Gaetino, a standout defender for the University of North Carolina women’s soccer team, has earned a spot in the U-20 Women’s National Team Training Camp. This prestigious announcement was made by the federation on Thursday, highlighting Gaetino as one of 24 elite college-aged players selected to showcase their talents in Fayetteville, Georgia, from May 26 to June 2.
A Step Towards National Acclaim
As the U.S. competes in the 2025 Concacaf Women’s U-20 Championship in Costa Rica during this FIFA window, the chosen squad in Georgia consists of players born in 2005. While they are too old for the upcoming FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, the camp offers an invaluable opportunity for these players to advance their skills and remain integral to the U.S. Women’s National Team (WNT) pipeline, with aspirations to join the U.S. U-23 WNT and potentially beyond.
Bella Gaetino’s Stellar Freshman Campaign
Bella Gaetino’s selection is no surprise to those who’ve followed her remarkable debut season with the Tar Heels. Gaetino not only participated in every match last season but also started in an impressive 25 games. Her contributions were pivotal in securing the national title, as she was instrumental both offensively and defensively. Let’s delve into her season highlights:
Key Statistics
- Goals Scored: 5
- Defensive Strength: Helped limit opponents to an average of 8.0 shots per game and just 3.8 shots on goal.
- NCAA Tournament Excellence: Only one goal conceded throughout the tournament, with a shutout during the College Cup.
Recognitions and Honors
Gaetino’s outstanding performance did not go unnoticed. She earned the following accolades:
- All-ACC Freshman Team
- TopDrawerSoccer Freshman Best XI Second Team
These achievements reflect her role as a cornerstone in the Heels’ lineup and emphasize her potential to become a key player for the national team.
Follow the Journey
Stay connected with the excitement surrounding UNC women’s soccer! Keep up-to-date with Gaetino and her teammates by following the Tar Heels on social media:
Conclusion
Bella Gaetino’s selection for the U-20 National Team Training Camp is a testament to her hard work, talent, and dedication. As she continues to build on her remarkable athletic journey, we look forward to witnessing her future successes on both collegiate and national stages. The future shines bright for this young star and UNC women’s soccer!
