SEATTLE, Wash. - Julie Woodward, head coach of the Seattle University women's soccer team, has announced that three student-athletes, all from the Puget Sound area, have signed National Letters of Intent to enroll in the university and compete on the Redhawk soccer team beginning in August 2007.
"I am extremely excited about the student-athletes we have signed. I am confident that this class, combined with our strong group of returners, will help contribute to another successful year for our program. The newcomers will add tremendous depth, athleticism, and leadership, three things I always look for in a student-athlete. They are a great fit for our program," Woodward said.
Goalkeeper Miranda Hanson, from Lynnwood, Wash., has been a four-year starter for the Mountlake Terrace High School varsity soccer team. She is a three-time All-WESCO and All-Area honoree as well as team MVP three consecutive years, a first for any Hawk student-athlete. She played every game possible and was the Everett Herald Athlete of the Week after scoring on a 45-yard free kick to defeat a previously undefeated rival 2-1 in overtime.
"Miranda is an outstanding keeper with the accolades to prove it," said Woodward. "She is a terrific leader and competitor who is extremely vocal and very consistent."
A native of Redmond, Wash., Kara Kuttler was a three-year varsity player for Inglemoor High School under Bryan McNiel. Kuttler is a two-time First Team All-League honoree (2005 and 2006), as well as team captain and team MVP for the Vikings last season. Kuttler has also participated in the track program at Inglemoor High School, which is the same high school that produced 2006 GNAC Player of the Year Ashley Porter.
"Kara is a great athlete with excellent speed, a terrific air game, and sound fundamentals. She will be able to play just about anywhere on the field," said Woodward.
Lindsey Montoya, a defender from Bainbridge Island, Wash., was the most valuable defender twice and last season's team captain for the Bainbridge High School Spartans, when the team finished with a 9-5-1 record. She led her team to the 3A quarterfinals in 2004 and is also a two-time All-Metro honoree. Montoya, born in Mexico City, also participated on the basketball team at Bainbridge High School.
"Lindsey is a very smart and patient defender who makes good decisions," Woodward said. "We are excited about the experience she brings in after training and playing with the Mexican National Team. She will add great depth to our back line."
These three signees will join 20 letterwinners expected to return from the 2006 squad that won the program's first conference title since 2001 and advanced to the NCAA Division II Women's Soccer Tournament.