Gonzaga Women's Soccer Lands Washington State Transfer Kalia Franklin, Sets Stage for Sister Duo

Gonzaga University women's soccer made a splash in the transfer portal, securing forward Kalia Franklin from Washington State University. The dynamic attacking player from Hilo, Hawaii, has signed a financial aid agreement and will join the Bulldogs for the 2026 season, reuniting with her sister Ailani Franklin, who will be a freshman on the roster that same year.

A Dynamic Attacker Joins the Zags

Franklin, a 5-foot-4 forward, brings an exciting offensive edge to Gonzaga's attack. Head coach Julie Benz praised the addition in a statement: "It was a no brainer to add Kalia to the roster, especially with sisters getting the chance to play together. Her dynamic, attacking style of play elevates our group and brings an exciting edge to the attack."

Though Franklin made limited appearances at Washington State last season, playing just four minutes in a game against San Diego on October 4, her pedigree as a finisher is well-established. The attacking prowess she developed at Waiakea High School in Hawaii speaks volumes about her potential at the collegiate level.

A Hawaii Success Story

Before heading to the mainland for college, Franklin was a dominant force in high school soccer on the Big Island. She led Waiakea High School to three Big Island Interscholastic Federation championships, including an impressive run to the state championship game during her senior season. As a senior, Franklin netted 15 goals and was named an all-state selection, earning a spot on the BIIF All-League Team.

Franklin's club soccer resume is equally impressive. She started with Surf Soccer Big Island before progressing to Hawaii Surf Soccer Club on Oahu, eventually landing with Crossfire Premier out of Seattle. Playing for Crossfire's 2022-23 ECNL Girls Northwest Academy team, she helped her squad finish atop the conference standings and reach the competitive ECNL Round of 16, showcasing her ability to compete against elite-level talent.

Building Something Special

The move to Gonzaga represents a fresh start for Franklin after her stint at Washington State. Playing alongside her sister Ailani gives the Bulldogs a unique dynamic, as the two will have the opportunity to develop chemistry on the field while supporting each other's college soccer journeys. Benz clearly sees potential in pairing the sisters within the team's system.

For a Gonzaga program competing at a high level, adding a proven goal scorer with Franklin's attacking mentality should provide immediate dividends. With her track record of finding the back of the net and her elite club experience, Franklin has the tools to make an impact for the Zags when she takes the field for them in 2026.

This article was created with AI assistance. Stats and results sourced from public records.