"Lady Cougars Sign Newark Soccer Standout for Next Year"

written by Dave Parsons, Sports Information Director

   The Mount Vernon Nazarene College women's soccer team has added another player to its roster for the 2002 season with the addition of Audrey Hager.

   Hager, a defender from Newark, Ohio, has signed a letter of intent to further her education and continue her soccer career at MVNC. As a senior at Newark High School, she scored three goals and handed out six assists while being named to the Ohio Capital Conference First Team. Hager was also selected to the District All-Star Team.

   "I am very happy to Audrey commit to play for us next year," said MVNC head coach Jonathan Meade. "She has many good qualities to bring to the team. First, she has a very pleasant personality that has gelled well with the current players on the team. She has also proven herself in the classroom as well as on the field."

   "Audrey has been a solid defender on her high school team and is well-respected in her conference," Meade added. "She will definitely add speed and height to our back line and will make good contributions in her first year. Besides having the personality, academics, and ability to make us a better team, she is also a player who wants to be a part of a Christian campus that cares about its faith. The team and I feel really good about Audrey joining us next year."

   In addition to playing soccer, Hager was a member of the freshmen and junior varsity basketball teams at Newark as a freshman and sophomore. She is a member of class council and National Honor Society, and she has worked on the yearbook staff. An honor roll student, she is also active in the Venture Club and the Excel Program.

   "I have chosen to attend MVNC for several reasons," said Hager of her college choice. "It offers the degree that I am seeking in a friendly environment. Also, the women's soccer team was a big part of my selection process."

   The Lady Cougars finished the 2001 season with a 14-9 overall record and a 10-6 American Mideast Conference mark in just their second varsity season. MVNC also won the National Christian College Athletic Association East Region title and advanced to the NCCAA National Tournament in Kissimmee, Florida.