NCE Soccer is thrilled to spotlight the incredible journey of Elle Hennes, who has officially committed to playing NCAA Division 1 soccer at the University of Michigan.
“Go Blue” has always been more than a chant for Elle Hennes — it’s been a dream. Now, that dream is becoming a reality. For Elle, committing to Michigan was a full-circle moment. Her father is a Michigan alum, and growing up, she was immersed in the Wolverines’ culture — from cheering at football games to attending the 2021 Big Ten Women’s Soccer Championship. That passion grew into purpose, as Elle pursued a college experience that combined both top-tier soccer and elite academics.
Elle’s recruiting journey was fast-paced and competitive, with serious interest arriving from several top programs on June 15 — the first official day coaches could reach out. But her heart was set on Ann Arbor. After connecting with the Michigan coaching staff and learning more about the program, the decision became clear.
My dad and I attended the Big Ten Women’s Soccer Championship in 2021 (when Michigan beat Rutgers!), among other games around the country, and from that moment on I dreamed of playing for Michigan and in the Big Ten. During the recruiting process, I loved learning more about the Michigan program and meeting the incredible coaching staff. To receive an offer from Michigan was a dream come true.
A Foundation Built with NCE:
Elle’s rise began long before the college calls. Her journey with NCE started at just 8 years old, attending Sunday night sessions at the Superdome in New Jersey. Over the coming years, Elle immersed herself in NCE’s competitive training environment, pushing herself against the region’s top talent.
I continued attending Sunday night training sessions for the next five years — I loved the competitive environment NCE offered. As I trained with the best girls in the area, I felt like I was improving every Sunday night. I also loved playing against the boys every week — that drove my skill level and confidence. I felt like I was improving every Sunday night.
Elle deepened her commitment, attending multiple NCE camps and tournaments. In 2022, she traveled to Sweden to compete in the prestigious Gothia Cup, representing NCE on an international stage.
I had the most incredible experience playing soccer and exploring Sweden. I made friendships that have lasted to this day and learned from the most knowledgable and outstanding of coaches, including Coach Rob Gale and Coach Nick Dunbar. I loved not only playing with my 2009 NCE team but also getting to compete with the 2007 team.
A Leader On and Off the Field:
Elle has competed at the highest level of girls club soccer in the US while attending one of the most academically rigorous schools in the country, the Brearley School.
This past season, Elle helped lead Brearley to its first ever New York State Championship this year after an undefeated season while leading the team in both goals and assists.
Additionally, Elle is a four year captain of her World Class FC ECNL team and has been invited to attend several USYNT Identification Centers.
Elle’s father, David had this to say about Elle’s accomplishments and her experiences with NCE:
“I am so proud of Elle’s academic and athletic accomplishments. I have fond memories of driving Elle to Waldwick, New Jersey every Sunday night for years so that she could train with NCE (complete with GWB traffic on the way home!). We traveled to New York, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Sweden for any number of NCE trainings, games, and camps. NCE was an integral part of Elle’s development as a player and she always appreciated the competition and coaching of the NCE sessions. “
Looking forward, we at NCE are excited to continue to follow Elle’s soccer journey at Michigan and beyond.
“I know that the program will provide me with the best opportunity to develop my game further – I would love to have the opportunity to play professionally after college – and I know that graduating with a degree from Michigan will position me for a unparalleled career after soccer. I am most looking forward to being coached by the Michigan staff, competing against the best college teams in the country, and furthering my education at one of the top universities in the country.”
With that drive, determination, and vision, Elle’s future is bright — both on and off the pitch.