Independence Welcomes US National Team Veterans and International Superstars to Preseason Camp
The Philadelphia Independence is proud to welcome its veteran group of all stars to preseason camp today. Arriving at the Independence training facility this morning were United States National Team players Lori Lindsey, Heather Mitts and Amy Rodriguez. Joining them were Swedish superstars Caroline Seger and Sara Larsson, English national team player Lianne Sanderson and the WPS 2009 Goalkeeper of the Year, Karina LeBlanc. Japanese forward Karina Marayuma and Icelandic star Hulmfridur Magusdottir will join the team at the end of the week.
“We’re excited to have these players in market,” said General Manager Terry Foley. “They are such talented athletes and having them on the field will challenge their teammates and really raise the level of play on the field.”
Heather Mitts is no stranger to Philadelphia. Mitts, who played for the Philadelphia Charge from 2001 to 2003, is a two-time Olympic gold medalist and the 25th American to earn her 100th career cap with the United States Women’s National Team. Last year, Mitts was a starting defender with the Boston Breakers, playing 19 matches in the 2009 season.
“I’m excited to return to the place where I began my career,” said Heather Mitts. “Philly and the fans embraced us then (with the Charge) and I know they will now. We have a strong core group of players and I’m excited to see the product Paul Riley puts out there on the field!”
These players are coming into preseason, one week behind the rest of team, after returning from their call ups with their respective countries for the Algarve and Cyprus Cups. Today, players observed training sessions, participated in team meetings, and completed physicals and paperwork.
Over the next few weeks, the coaching staff will continue to evaluate players and the 2010 final roster will take shape. Coach Riley is looking to cut down the final roster to 18 plus four optional developmental players by the time the Independence leaves for Washington in its preseason match on March 27.
The Independence is currently gearing up for its preseason match on March 20 against the University of North Carolina at United Sports in Downingtown. For more information on the Independence’s action-packed preseason schedule, including autograph sessions and affiliate meet-and-greet opportunities, visit www.wpsphillyindependence.com. All regular and preseason game tickets are on sale now at www.independencetix.com!
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