Catherine Oliveira, junior defender and midfielder for the WHS girls soccer team, announced her commitment to Colgate University on March 13, via Instagram.
Colgate is a highly rated liberal arts school known for its great academics and top NCAA Division I athletic programs. Located in Hamilton, NY, With an acceptance rate of around 12 percent, it is seen as a selective institution.
Colgate women’s soccer has consistently proven themselves to be a dominant force in the Patriot League. In the 2025 season, the Raiders went 9-6-4 including a big win against Bucknell 4-2 on their senior day.
Oliveira talked about her commitment process and what drew her to Colgate. She stated, “Colgate is incredible because of their high level academics. Being in the Patriot League is the perfect balance of high-level soccer and serious classes. The school provides amazing support to ensure that each student is successful.”
On the field, Oliveira brings a lot of energy, passion and leadership to the team. Despite the result of the game, she makes sure to keep her teammates focused and motivated. Senior captain Ashley Yenawine stated, “We could always count on Cat, she always made big tackles and stepped up on defense when we needed it most.”
During the 2025-26 season, Oliveira was a consistent starter at center back, however, her versatility on the field showed that she can play at any position. Oliveira recorded three goals and four assists throughout the season, including a big goal against Bayonne winning 3-0.
Oliveira had the once in a lifetime opportunity to play for the U17 Ireland National Team. “One of the biggest highlights of my career so far has been playing for the Republic of Ireland women’s U17 National Team. Traveling across Europe for the last eight months and playing at such a high level taught me so much about staying calm under pressure,” she said.
Assistant varsity coach Katherine Wertheimer has coached Oliveira for three years now. She stated, “She holds herself to a really high standard. She comes into every season in great shape, and is really committed to making herself better. She figures out what her role can be to help the rest of the team get better as a whole.”
The Blue Devils had a great year with a record of 18-1. Oliveira played a huge role for the Blue Devils in the Union County Tournament where they then went on to beat Cranford 2-0 in the final.
Oliveira visited Colgate and immediately fell in love with the school. She stated, “What really stood out to me was how close everyone is. The coaches at Colgate University valued me as a person and a player. After spending time with the team, talking with the coaches, walking around the campus, and learning more about the school, I immediately felt comfortable. I knew right away it was a perfect fit.”
Oliveira’s commitment to Colgate marks an exciting step in both her academic and athletic career. Oliveira is excited and focused to finish out a strong career as a Blue Devil and continue her talent as a Raider.
