Leigh Ann Robinson, Noelle Keselica Sign Now Marching To The Beat

KENNESAW, GA—Atlanta Beat General Manager Shawn McGee announced the signings of Leigh Ann Robinson and Noelle Keselica (Kes—uh—lee—kuh) as the newest members of the Atlanta Beat roster. Both Robinson and Keselica were drafted in the 2009 Women’s Professional Soccer Expansion Draft in mid—September.

Robinson, the Beat’s number one expansion pick, is a defender from the Bay Area’s FC Gold Pride who started 15 of 20 games in the 2009 season. She recorded a game—winner in her first professional campaign.

“In watching her on several occasions last season, she was very consistent,” said Beat Head Coach Gareth O’Sullivan. “We will be looking for her to get forward, and we believe that she will fit into our anticipated style of play very well.” 

Keselica joins the Beat after spending the 2009 WPS inaugural season with New Jersey’s Sky Blue FC. Prior to joining the SBFC, Keselica played for the W—League’s Washington Freedom and with Bälinge IF of Damallsvenskan, the Swedish Premier League. 

According to Coach O’Sullivan, “Noelle gives us a great attacking option and is a team player that will compliment our forward line. She is renowned as being a team player and is excited to get involved with our local community.”

Keselica completed her four—year collegiate playing career at the University of Virginia with 20 goals and 26 assists. She was named to the All—ACC First Team in 2005 before earning NSCAA All—America honors in her 2006 senior season.

“My experience in WPS was phenomenal last year,” said the forward. “It was a great year with Sky Blue FC, and I think that having a year under my belt helps me prepare for the Beat’s inaugural season. I have heard nothing but great things about the city, and I couldn’t be more excited to come to Atlanta.”

Both Robinson and Keselica will report for preseason in Atlanta on March 1, 2010.

The previous story is excerpted from a press release by the Atlanta Beat and is reprinted by beat writer Lauren Green. Green is a freelance writer who writes for Bleacher Report and Sports, Then and Now. She can be contacted for comment or hire at [e-mail] .  PHOTO CREDIT:  www.womensprosoccer.com/atlanta.