Although its season ended weeks ago, Penn State women’s soccer suffered a major loss Thursday night when attacking midfielder Frankie Tagliaferri announced she’s headed to Rutgers as a graduate transfer.

Tagliaferri, a New Jersey native herself, leaves Penn State as an All-American and four-time All-Big Ten honoree. She started 64 of her 90 career games and totaled 79 points, 27 goals, 25 assists, and an impressive seven game-winners.

Welcome home, 𝗙𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗸𝗶𝗲 𝗧𝗮𝗴𝗹𝗶𝗮𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗿𝗶!

https://t.co/O4vrSRYIJM pic.twitter.com/iS9GiiAcYR

— RUTGERS WOMEN’S SOCCER (@RUWSoccer) May 20, 2021

“This past year has been tough on everyone, but the one thing it has blessed us with was time at home with our families. Which is why after a lot of thought I’ve decided that I want to come home for my 5th year,” Tagliaferri told Rutgers in a statement. “Home to my family, friends, and past teammates. To have the opportunity to play for my state University, a place that has great academics, and a nationally ranked soccer program.”

This spring, Tagliaferri led the Big Ten with 29 points and placed second with 10 goals and nine assists. She’s currently the NCAA’s active leader in games played, too.

“To be able to add a quality player and quality person like Frankie is a testament to our culture that has been built by past and present players both on and off the field,” said Rutgers head coach Mike O’Neill. “Frankie’s success and experience at the highest level will have an impact on the program. We are excited to welcome her back home to New Jersey.”

Originally, Tagliaferri was set to return to Penn State next fall using her extra year of eligibility granted by the NCAA — a decision made alongside fellow captains Kerry Abello and Sam Coffey. She graduated from Penn State earlier in May with a degree in kinesiology.

Undoubtedly Penn State’s top postseason player this spring, Tagliaferri leaves Penn State as a two-time Big Ten Tournament champion and two-time Big Ten regular-season champion. The team won this year’s regular-season title before falling to Florida State in the NCAA Tournament.

The No. 11 Nittany Lions should remain competitive within the conference following an undoubtedly impressive season. But without Tagliaferri’s leadership, Penn State will need other veterans to step up and steer the ship.