MALIBU, Calif.  – Leyla McFarland of the Pepperdine women's soccer team has signed a professional contract with Pachuca Femenil of the Women's MX League in Mexico. McFarland adds Mexico to her international soccer experience, having also represented Northern Ireland in the 2017 U-19 European Championships.
 
The Bonita, California native wrapped up a great five-year collegiate career as a Wave this past season and was the third leading goal-scorer on the squad with five goals. She collected 11 points, which was tied for third within the squad. While at Pepperdine, McFarland has played in 88 games, which ranks tied for second on the Pepperdine all-time list in participation. She finished with 15 goals, 16 assists and 46 points. During the 2020 season, McFarland earned All-WCC second team honors after leading the Waves in points (11) and being tied for the team highs in goals (four) and assists (three). McFarland also notched WCC Commissioner's Honor Roll "bronze" honors in 2019.
 
Pachuca Femenil is competing in a 17-game season and have started the season in the win column with a 1-0 victory against Queretaro on Jan. 6. McFarland will be eligible to play in Pachuca Femenil's next match on Jan. 16 against Toluca.