By Jinseong Kim

AFC Ann Arbor are delighted to announce the signing of Anna Doane for the inaugural USL W League season. Born and raised in nearby Jackson and having just completed her freshman season at UNC Asheville, she will play her first senior club soccer in her native state.

Prior to the start of her college career, Doane was part of both Jackson Lumen Christian School and Michigan Rush. She played a vital role during her time with the Michigan Rush Jackson 02/03 girls’ team and won various competitions and championships. When the 02/03 Rush won the u16/17 division, MI State Cup, and SYL National, Doane was not only part of the side, but she played a vital role in the run. She was also part of the National Rush Select team.

Doane recently finished her freshman season with the three-time Big South champions UNC Asheville and appeared in all 18 league games despite it being her first season in the collegiate ranks. Doane recorded 1507 mins of playtime, and among the 18 games played throughout the season, she played 13 games for more than 90+ minutes.

Doane’s intention to join the AFCAA Family was influenced by former AFC Ann Arbor midfielder Marco Bernardini, who was part of the 2018 NPSL team. The ex-Rush Jackson coach helped Doane develop as a player and also as a human being. “My old rush coach Marco Bernardini had so many great things to say about this club,” Doane said. “Everything that defines this club, I hope to have embodied as a player. If that hasn't already happened, this is a great place to get started.”

Doane didn’t hesitate to express her excitement to be around the passionate staff. “I can already tell that not only do the coaches care about developing you as a player, but they also care about getting to know who you are and furthering your passion for the game.”

Adding power on the defense line, Doane explained herself as a strong defender. “I am a strong player both physically and mentally. I win balls out of the air, have strong clearances, I am consistent, and anticipate where the opponent’s passes are going to. I lead on the field with my words and actions.”

She also insisted on developing herself as a better leader at the club. “I hope to develop more leadership skills here. As a human being my strengths I am multifaceted including my ability to be respectful, determined, and empathetic.” She added, “My goals for this season are to make a solid impact on team, sharpen my leadership skills, and to see a noticeable change in myself whether that is mentally, physically, or both.”

Boyzzz Khumalo, Head Coach of the AFC Ann Arbor Women’s Team, emphasized Doane’s eagerness to develop herself as a better player and person. “Anna was another player recommended to us. She's from Jackson and she's a very solid defender,” he started. “One thing I can say about Anna is that she's a player that's looking to grow with the game, and get better as a player, and I'm looking forward to working with her."

Throughout her career, Anna Doane took challenges as an opportunity to improve, and her work ethic and leadership were necessary for the team. Her enthusiasm will trace a positive effect through this AFCAA team.