Soccer inks nine on Signing Day
AUSTIN, Texas -- University of Texas head women's soccer coach Chris Petrucelli and his staff announced the signing of nine of the top high school soccer players in the United States to National Letters of Intent on Friday, Feb. 9, 2007. The incoming class includes U.S. National Team participants Erica Campanelli, Kendall Campise, and Brooke Lee. Joining this group on the roster from the state of Texas are Kristen "Niki" Arlitt, Liz Couch, Rachel Stepp and Alisha Ortiz. Two out-of-state recruits round out the class -- Kate Nicholson and Kirsten Birkhold. "The class as a whole is very talented and deep," said Petrucelli. "There are quality players and depth at every position. This is a group that will contribute right away and will make our team better immediately." The bulk of the starting lineup returns in 2007 for the Longhorns including All-Americans Kelsey Carpenter and Kasey Moore. The group brought home the first Big 12 Soccer Postseason Championship and tied its furthest advancement in the NCAA Women's Soccer Tournament with an appearance in the third round. The Longhorns boasted an overall record of 18-4-3, and shattered Texas school records with 18 regular season wins and seven road victories. With the loss of six seniors but the return of eight starters, the newcomers have the opportunity to learn the UT system with one of the most experienced teams in the country. "There is a core of very talented players already here," continued Petrucelli. "The newcomers can fit in and find their way within that group. They don't have to come in and take over right from the start, although I feel like they are talented enough that they could. They are going to have some good examples to follow."
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