Dayton Dutch Lions News Release - www.dutchlionsfc.com
Friday, February 25, 2011
DAYTON, Ohio – A trio of top players from local Universities have committed to playing for the Dayton Dutch Lions FC in the 2011 USL W-League season. After a thorough review of the 45 women in attendance at the open tryout in February, the evaluators extended invitations to Jen Agueci of Wright State University, and Emily Hebbeler and Kelli Pawelko, both of the University of Cincinnati.
Agueci, originally from Toronto, Canada, is a member of the Wright State University women’s team, playing center midfield. She has been a key player for the Raiders, named to the All Newcomer Team in 2007, as well as First Team All League, and MVP in 2009.
“I am excited to be one of the first women to get a go at playing with this club," Agueci said.
Hebbeler comes from Northern Kentucky where she played club soccer for Hammer FC. A Speech Pathology major, Hebbeler has been UC’s leading scorer for the past two years leading the lady Bearcats to many victories.
“I am glad to have a new opportunity to play with girls from around the area," Hebbeler said. "I am a lover of new experiences, and look forward to getting to know the Dutch culture!”
Pawelko is a three-year starter for the UC women’s soccer team and has been named Big East player of the week two times. She is currently studying middle school education. Pawelko’s playing experience extends back to her upbringing in Chicago, where she played for the prestigious soccer club, Eclipse.
She also competed in the W-League in 2010 representing the Cleveland Internationals.
“I’m excited for the opportunity to play in one of the most completive divisions of the USL W-League,” Pawelko said.
Head Coach Mark Batman was optimistic about the abilities his first three committed players.
“I’m extremely excited to have Jen, Emily, and Kelly be the first players to join our family. All three are great players that will bring a lot to our team. The team is slowly piecing together and I think we will have a great inaugural season.”
The women kick off competition in the inaugural season on May 14 in Atlanta. The home opener for the ladies will take place on May 28 versus the Charlotte Lady Eagles. The summer will be full of events for the Dayton Dutch Lions FC ladies with 10 regular season matches, exhibition play, scheduled player appearances in the local community, camps, clinics, and intensive training.