March 9, 2007

Soccer: Penguins Sign Striker and Goalkeeper to 2007 Squad

     Youngstown -- Striker Lauren Brennan (Springfield, Ill.) and goalkeeper Kayla Diebold (Pittsburgh, Pa.) have signed national letters of intent to play for the Youngstown State soccer team this fall, Head Coach Anthony James announced on Friday.
    Brennan was a three-time first team all-conference selection and was named to the Illinois High School Soccer Coaches Association all-section team on three occasions. Brennan was also the leading goal scorer at Sacred Heart Griffin High School for the past three years and remains one of her club team's, the Five Stars, top goal scorers.

    "Lauren is a proven goal scorer and will be a tremendous addition to our attack," said James. "She is also very comfortable running at defenders with speed."
    Diebold has been a member of the Keystone Oaks High School girl’s soccer team since transferring from Bethel Park High School two years ago.
    James described Diebold as an intense player with a strong work ethic.
    "We finally have another goal keeper who will be challenging Caitlin Bodzioney for the starting job in the fall," said James. "Kayla is extremely quick, good with her feet, aggressive and not easily rattled when faced with extreme pressure. One of her greatest attributes is her ability to communicate with her defenders to keep them organized defensively.  I expect her to develop into a special goalkeeper here at YSU."
    Brennan and Diebold will join strikers Sierra Lawson (Gilbert, Az.), Taylor Pickens (Cleveland Heights, Ohio) and midfielder Tara Morey (Pittsgrove, N.J.) who signed previously with the Penguins.