(Posted June 4, 2008)

HUNTINGDON, Pa. -- Juniata College women's soccer Head Coach Scott McKenzie has announced that four high school student-athletes have committed to attend Juniata College and compete for the Eagle women's soccer program beginning with the 2008 season.

"The young women we've recruited for this class bring exceptional soccer abilities coupled with tremendous leadership skills to Juniata College, and all of them come from programs with winning traditions. In other words, these four young women are great leaders, they know how to win, and they're great soccer players to boot," said McKenzie. "I think this class is a perfect complement to the returnees in our program, and will help us continue toward our goal of a conference title and NCAA tournament berth."

The following is a list (in alphabetical order) of incoming freshmen student-athletes for 2008; additional commitments may be announced at a later date.

Nicole Hankinson
F, New Baltimore, Pa./Berlin Brothersvalley HS


Nikki was a four-time All-County selection at Berlin Brothersvalley, where she started at forward for the Mountaineers. She was the team's Offensive MVP as a freshman and sophomore, and was named Berlin Brothersvalley's Outstanding Senior Athlete this past season in addition to serving as team captain. She helped lead the Mountaineers to the District V championship during her junior season, and was also a member of Berlin Brothersvalley's District V champions girls' basketball team as a senior.

A National Honor Society member, Nikki is the recipient of a PIAA District V Athletic Directors' Scholarship.

"Nikki is an impact athlete that can step in and make us better from day one," said McKenzie. "She will learn the college game quickly and provide more punch to an already lethal attack. She is a team player with a great attitude and positive outlook."

Emily Pendleton
MF, Lititz, Pa./Manheim Township HS


Emily was a four-year starter in the midfield for Manheim Township, and was team captain during her senior season. She also competed for the PA Classics Premier 89 club team. An Honor Roll student, she was on Manheim Township's student council during all four years of high school.

"Emily is a very mature player who knows the game extremely well. She has received outstanding coaching in her high school and club career, and that has prepared her for immediate success at the college level. Emily should be able to contribute immediately for the Blue and Gold," said McKenzie.

Aimee Radic
F, Belle Vernon, Pa./Belle Vernon Area HS


A three-time All-Section selection, Aimee was team captain for Belle Vernon during her senior season. She helped lead the Lady Leopards to a 17-3-1 record, including a perfect 14-0 conference mark. In the classroom, Aimee is a National Honor Society member and is involved with yearbook, student government, newspaper, and SADD.

"Aimee is a 'go-to' player and should make an immediate impact on College Hill," said McKenzie. "She is a creative player and a lethal goal scorer. Her high work rate and energy will fit right in with our team."

Danielle Settimio
D/MF, Altoona, Pa./Altoona Area HS


Danielle was a two-year starter and four-year letterwinner on the backline and in the midfield for Altoona, and was team captain during her senior campaign. She also served as captain of the swimming team, and participated in track and field. Danielle is a National Honor Society student, and is a member of the National Art Honor Society.

"Danielle is a superb athlete with a great attitude. She is willing to play anywhere to give her team the best chance for victory. Her versatility and strong work ethic will prepare her for success on the college level," said McKenzie.

All four players will be joining a Juniata women's soccer program that is coming off a watershed 2007 season. The Eagles finished with a 9-6-3 record, the fewest losses in program history, and earned the team's first trips to post-season play. Juniata advanced to the semifinals of the Landmark Conference Women's Soccer Tournament, and later received a slot in the ECAC Division III South Region Tournament.

The Eagles are coached by Scott McKenzie, who will be heading into his ninth season at the helm of the Juniata women's soccer program. McKenzie, who also serves on the NCAA Division III Women's Soccer Committee, is assisted by Beth Bleil '99.

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Contact April Feagley at feaglea@juniata.edu or (814) 641-3131 for more information.