USL W League Madison Signs Powerhouse Forward/Midfielder, Jessica Fernau

USL W League Madison Signs Powerhouse Forward/Midfielder, Jessica Fernau

2024-25 Gatorade Player of the Year Commits to USL W League Madison

MADISON, WI: USL W League Madison adds another prestigious player to its roster for the inaugural season in 2026. Jessica Fernau, a Wisconsin-native currently playing at Ball State University, will bring her impressive resume and history of success back to her home state. 

“I’m incredibly excited for the opportunity to join the USL W Madison team and be part of such a competitive, driven environment,” said Fernau. “It is especially meaningful because I get to reconnect with old teammates and coaches who helped shape my game, and I can’t wait to build on those relationships in a new, higher-level setting. I’m looking forward to challenging myself, growing as a player, and bringing my energy, work ethic, and creativity to the group. This is a big step in my development, and I’m grateful for the chance to learn, compete, and represent Madison with pride!”

A Wind Lake, Wisconsin-native, Fernau spent four years at Muskego High School, where she led her team to four consecutive WIAA Division 1 State Championships, including a 2025 undefeated team that finished the year with an incredible 19-0-2 record. During her senior year, the All-American finished the season with a staggering 21 goals and 17 assists in just 21 matches played. She was showered with accolades including, the Gatorade Wisconsin 2024-25 Player of the Year, Wisconsin All-State Player of the Year and Classic 8 Player of the Year awards. Fernau also received Player of the Game honors in the 2024 Division 1 State Final as well as becoming a National Academy League Talent ID invitee. Prior to that, she took her Forge Futsal Academy team to second place in nationals in 2023.  

“Jess brings a special level of creativity and composure to our attack,” said USL W League Madison Head Coach, Giuliano Oliviero. “Her ability to read the game and create opportunities for others makes everyone around her better. She’s a difference-maker for our team.”

As a rookie at Ball State University in Indiana, Fernau has already made a significant impact for her team. The freshman played an average of 29 minutes per match and notched the game-winning goal against Toledo during the 2025 season. 

“We are extremely excited to welcome Jess Fernau to the W League team,” said USL W League Madison Technical Director, Liz Lawrence. “Jess is a fierce competitor, and the success she has seen at a high level will help elevate our team. Her creativity on the ball and decision-making in the attack are tremendous assets. We are very excited to have Jess as part of the team!”

Fernau’s commitment to USL W League Madison further strengthens an already powerful roster that has been carefully curated by Oliviero and Lawrence. The club will look to make a statement in their inaugural year as a dominant force in the league. With USL W League Madison support already surging past 700 full season ticket members, Breese Stevens Field is set to become a formidable atmosphere for visiting teams in the W League.

About USL W Madison: USL W League Madison will begin play in May of 2026, featuring the top pre-professional players in the country. More information on the Club and USL W League can be found at www.madisonwomenssoccer.com. Purchase your Season Tickets here.