"Lady Cougars Sign Worthington Christian Soccer Player"

written by Dave Parsons, Sports Information Director

   The Mount Vernon Nazarene College women's soccer team has added another player to the team's roster for the 2002 season as the Lady Cougars have signed Deborah Shinaberry.

   Shinaberry, a defender from Westerville, Ohio, started 17 matches at Worthington Christian High School in 2001 as she helped the team post two shutouts. She was selected to the Central District Division II Senior All-Star Team in 2001 for her efforts.

   "I am happy that Deborah has made the decision to be a part of the team," said MVNC head coach Jonathan Meade. "She has been an integral part in building the young Worthington Christian soccer program up. I look forward to her bringing that know how to our program and helping us build a soccer tradition here at MVNC."

   "Deborah has done a fine job anchoring the defense at WCHS, and she is going to help make our defense even stronger next season," Meade added. "She has great speed, and I am looking forward to that making us a better attacking team from the back as well. She is an outstanding student and is heavily involved with her church which says a lot about her character and discipline. I am excited to have her wearing the blue and green next year."

   In addition to her accomplishments on the soccer field, Shinaberry has also been a two-year member of National Honor Society for her classroom achievements.

   "There are several reasons why I selected MVNC," said Shinaberry of her college choice. "I chose MVNC because of the spiritual atmosphere, the soccer team, and the location. I am very involved with my church, and I am looking forward to coming back on Sundays. Another reason for choosing MVNC is that they have an excellent mathematics education program, which is what I plan to major in."

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