Feb. 7, 2007

The Florida Atlantic University women's soccer team announced the signing of five players to National Letters of Intent today.

Head Coach Brian Dooley's class features a trio of defensive players who should bolster a defensive unit that has registered 24 shutouts over the last two seasons. The five signees are comprised of two groups of former club teammates who will reunite at FAU. The quintet will look to continue the success the program enjoyed in its first year in the Sun Belt, where it qualified for the semifinals of the conference tournament.

"This class will continue the tradition of excellence at FAU. We have added size, speed, athleticism and technical ability," said Head Coach Brian Dooley.

Gillian Baggott is a 5'8" defender from Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, who played at St. Joseph High School in Ottawa and is noted for her excellent technique. Her strength and intensity will also allow her to be a factor on the offensive side of the field.

Janelle Blake, a 5'7" defender from Nepean, Ontario, is an excellent passer who played alongside Baggott at St. Joseph, as well as on the Ottawa Fury club team. An extremely quick defender with the ability to shut down opponents, Blake can also get forward to make an impact in the attack zone.

Anhnhi Tran rounds out the trio of club teammates from north of the border. A 5'4" midfielder, Tran is a dynamic goal scorer with the ability to take on defenders. She is a technically gifted player who is creative on the attack. Tran also has the ability to play as a striker or wing. She will strengthen an offensive attack that is set to return its top four point scorers from last season.

Mariana Byczkowski is a 6'1" goalkeeper from Cooper City, FL. She brings size and athleticism to the goalkeeper position. A two-sport athlete (basketball) at St. Thomas Aquinas High School, Byczkowski will focus on soccer at FAU. She has great quickness and agility for her size and should compete immediately for playing time.

Sarah Wareham is a 5'6 wing from Davie, FL who was a teammate of Byczkowski's on the Weston Fury. Wareham, who played at American Heritage High School, possesses both the physical skills and work ethic that will allow her to compete immediately. She will be a tremendous addition to the team.