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Lautensack, a midfielder from Oswego, New York, helped Oswego High School to a league championship and the Section III Class semifinals this past season. For her efforts, she was named to the All-Central New York Team, the All-Section III Team, and the All-League Team. She also finished in the top ten at Oswego High in assists and goals.

"I am very happy about signing Laurel," said MVNU head coach Jonathan Meade. "She has been a very strong player for her school team as well as for her club team and the New York State Olympic Development team. I look forward to bringing that strong experience to MVNU next year."

"I see Laurel making an immediate impact at midfield for us," Meade added. "Even though we have graduated four midfielders from this past season, I believe Laurel will step into the middle of the field and hold her own quite well against opponents. Her work ethic and ability to see things well and distribute are key for helping run the midfield, and I think she will do well."

In addition to her accomplishments on the soccer field, Lautensack has excelled in the classroom. An honor roll student, she has been named to Who's Who Among American High School Students, the National Honor Roll, and the National Society of High School Scholars. She has also been involved in cheerleading, track, Photo Club, Yearbook staff, and is the editor of the Oswego High School magazine. In addition, she has been very active in her church in youth group, as a Vacation Bible School leader, and as a children's church teacher.

"After transferring from Faith Heritage to Oswego High School, I realized how important it was for me to go to a Christian college," said Lautensack of her reasons for choosing MVNU. "I decided I wanted to go to a smaller Christian school, and I want to major in Business and Fashion Design, which not a lot of Christian colleges offer. MVNU is also very beautiful. I just felt like it was the school for me."

"Laurel is the full package and is a great addition to the entire institution," said Meade. "Besides being a successful athlete, she is very involved with her church and cares deeply about her faith. Academically, she has also proven to be very successful. Laurel does not do things half-heartedly. When she gets involved in something, she pours everything into it. That makes me and the team very excited about her and how she will push us to be a better team."

The Lady Cougars finished the 2002 season with a 14-8-1 overall record as they tied the school record for most wins in a season. MVNU also finished third in the highly-competitive American Mideast Conference South Division and fourth at the National Christian College Athletic Association National Tournament.