University of Delaware Athletics
Women's Soccer Alums Sign Professional Contracts
7/28/2025 5:23:00 PM | Women's Soccer
NEWARK, Del - The University of Delaware alumni Paige Kenton and Kyla Burns have signed professional contracts in women's soccer this summer. Kenton inked a contract with Sporting JAX FC, which is located in Jacksonville, Florida and competes in the Gainbridge Super League, while Burns signed with Breidablik which plays in the top division in Iceland.
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Kenton was a graduate student and played one season with the Fightin' Blue Hens in 2024. She appeared in all 19 games, logging 1556 minutes as a forward and defender, and scored two goals.Â
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"I am so excited to play for Sporting JAX this season. The opportunity to be part of the very first season for this team is truly special, and I am thrilled to represent the city of Jacksonville," Kenton said. "This opportunity is truly a dream come true. I am super grateful for the support from my Delaware teammates and coaches to help me get to this point."
The Gainbridge Super League is a Division One professional women's soccer league that kicked off in August 2024. It is built for the future of women's soccer and aims to be a global leader on and off the field, providing more opportunities for more women in more communities than ever before. The inaugural season featured eight teams with additional teams set to join in subsequent seasons. Unique in American soccer, the Gainbridge Super League plays on the "fall-to-summer" soccer calendar traditionally followed around the world, ensuring players are able to represent both club and country and allowing clubs to actively participate in the emerging global women's transfer market. The Gainbridge Super League sits atop the USL's distinct youth-to-pro women's pathway.
Burns had one of the best goalkeeping seasons in Blue Hens history. She appeared in 32 games, made 29 starts, and earned 10 shutouts in net. Her save percentage of .852 ranks as the best in Blue Hens history. Last season, she was named the CAA Goalkeeper of the Year and earned First Team All-Conference honors.
"I am beyond excited to play with Breidablik for the remainder of their season. It is a club with history and success. It is something I am excited to be a part of," Burns said.Â
Kenton and Burns are the latest women's soccer alums who signed professional contracts post graduation. In January of 2023, Sara D'Appolonia signed with Peninsula Power FC, and currently plays for Melbourne Victory FC in Australia.Â
"Watching two of our own take the leap to the professional level is a reminder of what's possible when talent meets relentless work ethic," University of Delaware women's soccer head coach Kelly Lawrence said. " We're so proud that their journey continues, not just because they've reached the pro level, but because they still love the game. Their passion, curiosity and growth mindset set them apart and inspired everyone around them to keep reaching higher. They've not only raised the bar, they've shown us all the way forward."Â
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FOLLOW ON SOCIAL
For the latest on Delaware women's soccer, follow the Blue Hens on X, Instagram, and like on Facebook.
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Kenton was a graduate student and played one season with the Fightin' Blue Hens in 2024. She appeared in all 19 games, logging 1556 minutes as a forward and defender, and scored two goals.Â
Â
"I am so excited to play for Sporting JAX this season. The opportunity to be part of the very first season for this team is truly special, and I am thrilled to represent the city of Jacksonville," Kenton said. "This opportunity is truly a dream come true. I am super grateful for the support from my Delaware teammates and coaches to help me get to this point."
The Gainbridge Super League is a Division One professional women's soccer league that kicked off in August 2024. It is built for the future of women's soccer and aims to be a global leader on and off the field, providing more opportunities for more women in more communities than ever before. The inaugural season featured eight teams with additional teams set to join in subsequent seasons. Unique in American soccer, the Gainbridge Super League plays on the "fall-to-summer" soccer calendar traditionally followed around the world, ensuring players are able to represent both club and country and allowing clubs to actively participate in the emerging global women's transfer market. The Gainbridge Super League sits atop the USL's distinct youth-to-pro women's pathway.
Burns had one of the best goalkeeping seasons in Blue Hens history. She appeared in 32 games, made 29 starts, and earned 10 shutouts in net. Her save percentage of .852 ranks as the best in Blue Hens history. Last season, she was named the CAA Goalkeeper of the Year and earned First Team All-Conference honors.
"I am beyond excited to play with Breidablik for the remainder of their season. It is a club with history and success. It is something I am excited to be a part of," Burns said.Â
Kenton and Burns are the latest women's soccer alums who signed professional contracts post graduation. In January of 2023, Sara D'Appolonia signed with Peninsula Power FC, and currently plays for Melbourne Victory FC in Australia.Â
"Watching two of our own take the leap to the professional level is a reminder of what's possible when talent meets relentless work ethic," University of Delaware women's soccer head coach Kelly Lawrence said. " We're so proud that their journey continues, not just because they've reached the pro level, but because they still love the game. Their passion, curiosity and growth mindset set them apart and inspired everyone around them to keep reaching higher. They've not only raised the bar, they've shown us all the way forward."Â
Â
FOLLOW ON SOCIAL
For the latest on Delaware women's soccer, follow the Blue Hens on X, Instagram, and like on Facebook.
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Players Mentioned
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