From Northern Ireland to NCAA Division I: Ebony Leckey’s Journey at Marshall University


Marshall University is a public research university located in **Huntington, West Virginia, United States. Founded in 1837, Marshall is one of the most respected universities in the Appalachian region and is widely known for its strong athletic tradition and supportive campus environment. Key Facts 🎓 Founded: 1837 👨🎓 Students: ~11,000+ 📍 Location: Huntington, West Virginia 🏫 Campus Size: ~114 acres 📚 Programs: 200+ undergraduate and graduate programs 🔬 Research Status: Carnegie R2 Doctoral University Academics Marshall offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees across several colleges and schools. Some of its most popular academic areas include: Business Health Sciences Engineering Sports Management Education Biomedical Sciences The university places a strong emphasis on career preparation and experiential learning, helping students transition successfully into professional careers. Athletics The Marshall Thundering Herd compete in NCAA Division I athletics as members of the Sun Belt Conference. Marshall has a proud sporting tradition and is particularly well known for: ⚽ Men’s Soccer – NCAA National Champions (2020) 🏈 American Football 🏀 Basketball Soccer matches are played at Hoops Family Field, a modern facility that provides an excellent environment for NCAA Division I competition. Campus & Student Life Marshall offers a close-knit campus environment where students receive strong academic support and access to excellent athletic facilities. Students benefit from: Over 200 student clubs and organizations Modern athletic and academic facilities A supportive student-athlete culture A vibrant sports environment within the university community Huntington is a classic American college town with a strong connection to Marshall athletics and a passionate fanbase supporting the Thundering Herd.
Another fantastic Scholarship Sports USA success story is Ebony Leckey from Derry, Northern Ireland, who enjoyed a strong collegiate career in the United States with Marshall University before continuing her involvement in the game as a Graduate Assistant coach.
A dynamic forward, Ebony brought pace, intelligence and a natural eye for goal to the attacking line during her time with the Marshall Thundering Herd women's soccer.
During her senior season in 2024, Ebony played in 16 matches with 13 starts, finishing as one of the team’s leading scorers with three goals. Two of those goals proved decisive, highlighting her ability to deliver in key moments.
Her memorable moments included:
⚽ Scoring Marshall’s first goal of the season in a 1–1 draw with Morehead State
⚽ Netting a dramatic 86th-minute match winner on her birthday to defeat Indiana State
⚽ Opening the scoring in a 3–0 victory over Troy
Following her playing career, Ebony remained with the program as a Graduate Assistant in 2025, continuing to contribute to the development of the team while pursuing her postgraduate studies.
Before moving to the United States, Ebony represented Northern Ireland at U17 level, earning seven international appearances, and developed her club career playing for Linfield F.C. Women.
Ebony comes from a strong footballing family as well — she is the sister of fellow SSUSA athlete Sienna Leckey, who also went on to compete in the U.S. college system.
Everyone at Scholarship Sports USA is incredibly proud of Ebony’s journey from Northern Ireland to NCAA Division I soccer, and her continued contribution to the game as a coach and mentor.
Congratulations Ebony 👏⚽











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