Kaitlin Dickmann is a player who has been described as “coming into her own.” Only to those from the outside, that is. Those that know Dickmann well have been abreast of her ability for some time now.

“I’ve felt that she has been one of the better players in her age group since she was 12,” said Randy Dodge, her So Cal Blues U17 coach. “People are really starting to recognize the things she does and the fact that she’s really special.”

California is one of those who have picked up on Dickmann’s ability. She’s expected to officially commit to Cal within the week. What the Golden Bears will receive is a defender who flat out does not get beat 1v1.

She has good size and great speed to help her stabilize the back. But only those who have been watching would know that. Dickmann is humble and unassuming and her performances can appear subtle, especially when paired with an accomplished squad like the So Cal Blues.

“She doesn’t rave about herself or promote anything she does, but everyone on our team knows that she’s the backbone of the group,” Dickmann said.

And about that group: The Blues have their sights set on a return trip to nationals, a goal easily within reason considering the team’s personnel.

Haley Rosen (pictured on front) and Lauren Bohaboy are a deadly offensive combination for any team in the country to contend with. Goalie Kelly McCormick is a seasoned stabilizer not to mention Kimberly Marshall, a good athlete with great size who has drawn interest from major programs like Stanford and Wake Forest.

And if that embarrassment of riches wasn’t enough, the So Cal Blues will receive a boon in the arrival of Kylie McCarthy, an accomplished striker who has transferred from San Diego Surf.

Because of the Blues’ transfer rules, McCarthy won’t be eligible to play until the state cup, but she is practicing with the group and even having a player of her caliber around the team will be an enhancement.

McCarthy brings national team experience, and a hardworking mentality. She’s sharp with both feet and good with her back to the goal.

“How many players even have the desire to train with a team like she does when she isn’t able to play yet? Said Dodge. “She’ll be great for us.”