After much anticipation, the WPS held its Expansion Draft for the 2010 season today in which several outstanding players from WPS teams were selected by the Philadelphia Independence and the Atlanta Beat.
The Independence organization has been doing due diligence on the players available in this draft process for some time and were thrilled with the day’s results.
General Manager Terry Foley commented, “This is the first step to our very important process of team-building and bringing the best possible female soccer athletes to this pro team and city."
'There were some great players available in this expansion draft, and I think we made best use of each one of our selection opportunities today. Now we’ll move ahead next week (Tuesday, September 22) with the WPS International Draft to bring more superstars to the Independence.”
The Independence scored big with its first selection, picking midfielder Lori Lindsey from the Washington Freedom. For the past several years, Lori has demonstrated her superstar talents by leading the Freedom’s midfield with an incredible work-rate, solid defensive presence, and dangerous ball distribution. Her consistent play and invaluable leadership were key components to the Freedom’s success this season.
Her impact on the field did not go unnoticed by Women’s National Team Coach, Pia Sundhage, who has named Lori to the squad for September’s WNT training camp. Lori is one of 26 players invited to the 12-day camp to compete for a roster spot on the USA’s trip to Germany in October.
A native of Indiana, Lori had an incredibly successful college and youth career. After competing with the U-16, U-17, and U-21 National Teams, she went on to become the first ACC Player of the Year from the University of Virginia in 2000. Lori is one of just two players ever to receive consecutive ACC Player of the Year awards, with Mia Hamm as the only other back-to-back recipient.
Closing out her dominant college career with NSCAA All-American honors in 2001, it is no surprise that Lori continued her tremendous success at the professional level. Prior to her WPS debut, Lori was the fourth overall pick in the 2002 WUSA draft and helped lead the Washington Freedom to capture the Founders Cup in 2003.
Independence Head Coach Paul Riley could not be happier with the team’s first selection. "Lori is a true professional in every aspect of her preparation and play. She will add tremendous leadership to our new franchise and has the presence to galvanize any locker room. She is intelligent, consistent and has a great appetite for the game."
Lori shares Paul’s excitement about her move to Philadelphia. “This is a great opportunity for me as a soccer player. I’m really looking forward to working with Terry and Paul, and I am excited to be a part of the Independence in its first WPS season. It’s fantastic that the WPS is growing, and I’m glad I can be a part of the first expansion team.”
0 Comments
Loading more comments...
This comment and all replies have been deleted This comment has been deleted Undo delete