IRVINE, Calif.-- UC Irvine women's soccer begins their buildup to the 2026 season introducing their class of Anteaters beginning with Keira Baranski.
 
The defensive-minded Baranski has flourished for Rebels SC and Mater Dei Catholic High School. Her and the Crusaders were CIF Finalists in 2024 when she was Second Team All-League, and she followed that up with First Team All-League in 2025. The team captain in 2026 led her squad to a 19-1-1 record and she contributed five goals and eight assists as primarily a central midfielder. Altogether in her high school career, she earned nine varsity letters including on track and field where she was also part of a CIF Finalist team and set the school record as part of the 4x800m team.

On the club side, she's claimed a USYF National Championship in 2023 with Rebels SC. Baranski garnered ECNL All-Conference status, and in 2024 reached the semifinals of the ECNL North American Cup.

"Keira has been on the radar for a long time. Calm and composed on the ball, super smart in her decision making, and can impact the game as a center back or in the midfield." - head coach Scott Juniper