DAYTON, Ohio – University of Dayton women’s soccer coach Mike Tucker announced the Flyers’ 2013 recruiting class today.
“It's been so long that these young ladies have been committed to be Flyers, now we can finally celebrate that becoming 'official,’ said Tucker. With this class we have brought in much talent, but the exciting part is that we feel that each has the qualities to be successful in every aspect of being a top quality student-athlete.”
Meghan Blank (Springboro, OH/Bishop Fenwick), Sarah Byrne (Cincinnati, OH/Ursuline Academy), Catherine Devitt (Dayton, OH/Carroll), Elizabeth James (Columbus, IN/Columbus North), Courtney Klosterman (Galena, OH/St. Francis DeSales), Libby Leedom (Florence, KY/St. Henry), Erin O’Malley (West Chester, PA/Bishop Shanahan), and Diarra Simmons (Toronto, Ontario, Canada/Mary Ward Catholic) each signed their National Letters of Intent to continue their playing careers at Dayton.
“Athletic and versatile are two words I would use to describe the group,” said Tucker. “We have filled needs both short and long term in every line with quality players. Our goalkeepers have played successfully at very high levels and should compete for time from day one. In the defensive line, Courtney and Sarah bring great athleticism, soccer skills and excellent read of the game. Each is capable of playing wide or centrally.”
“Several are capable of excelling in either the mid or up top,” added Tucker. “Meghan has scored huge goals but also is terrific at combining, finding seams and serving quality crossing passes. Catherine, when back in form, is an imposing physical presence who attacks with skill and strength. Diarra is similarly athletic and an accomplished goal scorer at the International level. Libby plays more centrally either in the mid or up top and is very skillful and imaginative. Erin is also a more central player, excelling in winning and keeping possession.”
The Flyers finished the 2012 season with 14-4-2 record and an Atlantic 10 Semifinals appearance. UD graduates four seniors, including three starters.
“We believe that several from this class will play key roles in our success this year and also have great collegiate careers!” said Tucker. “Flyer fans should be very excited about this recruiting class!”
