Washington Spirit Reserves News Release - www.washingtonspirit.com
Monday, April 14, 2014
BOYDS, Md. – The Washington Spirit Reserves continued to build their 2014 season roster today by announcing the signing of Virginia Tech midfielder Katie Yensen to the growing squad. Fresh off the most successful run in Hokie women’s soccer history last fall, Yensen returns for her third season at the Maryland SoccerPlex as a member of a Washington W-League team.
In addition to starting for the Spirit Reserves last season, Yensen was a member of D.C United Women in 2012.
Hailing from nearby Falls Church, Virginia, Yensen spent her youth career as a member of the nationally acclaimed McLean Strikers. Upon entering Virginia Tech in 2011, the dynamic midfielder wasted little time in making an impact, playing in all 23 games including 14 starts. Yensen followed her statistical prowess up the following year, notching four goals and two assists in a 20-game span.
However, Yensen’s most significant collegiate accomplishments to date include a seven-goal season performance leading to a NCAA College Cup appearance, the first ever for Virginia Tech women’s soccer. Yensen’s commanding presence and rapid-fire decision making not only led the Hokies to the ACC championship match, but also drove the team on an unprecedented four-game win streak in the NCAA Tournament.
Yensen capped off her brilliant junior year with the game-winning goal in a 3-0 victory against Duke to propel Virginia Tech into the NCAA College Cup final four.
“Katie is a steady and reliable force in the midfield,” Assistant Coach JP Sousa said. “I'm impressed with her composure in the middle and she can also do good things in a wide position.”
The Washington Spirit Reserves face a challenging schedule of opponents in the Northeast Conference for the season, which include historic playoff contenders the Long Island Rough Riders and W-League veterans the New York Magic.
The Spirit Reserves kick off their season Saturday, May 17 against the Braddock Road Stars Elite at the Maryland SoccerPlex. Match time is currently slated for 3 p.m. and is the first match of a special doubleheader with the Washington Spirit professional side. The Spirit take on Abby Wambach and the Western New York Flash at 6:30 p.m.