"Grove City Standout to Join MVNC Men's Soccer Team"

written by Dave Parsons, Sports Information Director

   The Mount Vernon Nazarene College men's soccer team has landed another recruit for the 2002 season as the Cougars have announced the signing of Robb Dalton.

   Dalton, a midfielder from Grove City, Ohio, recorded 10 goals and 10 assists in 16 matches as a senior at Grove City High School. He helped Grove City advance to the district finals for the first time in over 20 years by scoring three tournament goals including the game-winning goal in the district semifinals with less than 30 seconds to play. For his efforts, he was named to the Ohio Capital Conference Third Team and selected as the team's Most Improved Player.

   "Robb was a player that I initially saw play in our BLAST soccer competition four years ago here on campus," said MVNC head coach Paul Furey referring to the annual competition held between Nazarene churches from all across the school's educational region. "He was a noticeable player then as a high school freshman, and we are glad to have landed him now as he continued to grow and improve. He helped Grove City High School in the midfield with his technical ability, and I believe he will be a player that will eventually have that type of impact for us as well."

   "Robb has been around the Nazarene church and has been familiar with MVNC for a long time, so I am confident that he will fit in nicely," Furey added. "He is a personable young man and will be a very nice addition to our program and our campus. I am delighted to have him on board."

   In addition to playing on his high school team, Dalton has been active in club soccer since 1992. He played for Team Magic from 1992-1998 and Cesa in 1999-2000. In addition, he was inducted into the National Honor Society in 2001.

   "There are many reasons why I have chosen to attend MVNC," said Dalton of his college choice. "My dad works there and my sister currently attends the college. I like the atmosphere, and everyone seems to be friendly. I already enjoy working with the soccer team. They are a great group of guys and they have a great coach to lead them. I feel welcome and it (MVNC) seems to be the right place."

   The Cougars are coming off a 14-6-2 season in 2001. The team advanced to the semifinals of the NAIA Region IX Tournament for the second straight year, and MVNC also finished fifth in the highly-competitive American Mideast Conference with an 11-4-1 conference mark.