Feb. 19, 2008

CHICAGO - Loyola University Chicago head women's soccer coach Frank Mateus announced the addition of three recruits to his roster today. Goalkeeper Katie Groesch (Decatur, Ill./MacArthur), defender Lauren Ostarello (St. Charles, Ill./North) and midfielder Carlene Schleisman (Verona, Wis./Middleton) make up the class and all three will be eligible for competition in the fall of 2008.

"Although this is the smallest class, in terms of numbers, that we have brought in, I am extremely happy with this group," said Mateus. "These three address all of the things that we felt we needed to improve from last year's team. We feel as if these three will raise the level of our team and will compete right away with the present team."

Katie Groesch
5-7 ◊ Goalkeeper ◊ Freshman
Decatur, Ill. (MacArthur)

Three-time all-conference and all-area selection ... Earned all-section honors her last two seasons ... Named team's most valuable player in 2007 ... Member of Illinois State ODP team from 2003-07 and attending ODP Regional Holdover Camp in 2007 ... Also played varsity tennis ... Vice President of National Honor Society ... Played club soccer for Eclipse Select.

Mateus on Katie: "Katie is a very technical and athletic keeper who will challenge for playing time immediately and help solidify that position. We are extremely happy to have Katie join our team. She has been very successful, thus far, and we think she will only continue to get better."

Lauren Ostarello
5-9 ◊ Defender ◊ Freshman
St. Charles, Ill. (North)

All-conference and all-sectional performer for two-time regional championship team ... Scored one goal and assisted on four others from her sweeper position and anchored a defense that recorded 14 clean sheets in 21 matches ... Two-time academic all-conference choice ... Played club soccer for Campton United.

Mateus on Lauren: "Lauren is an extremely strong and physical defender with a great first touch and composure on the ball. She will provide a presence on set pieces and defensive responsibilities. We really like the fact that she can battle with anyone but is also good at keeping possession of the ball."

Carlene Schleisman
5-7 ◊ Midfielder ◊ Freshman
Verona, Wis. (Middleton)

Finished her career with 20 goals and 23 assists ... Helped team to semifinals of Wisconsin Division I state tournament ... Helped team to Wisconsin State Cup finals from 2004-07... Played club soccer for MYSC ... Member of the National Honor Society.

Mateus on Carlene: "Carlene has a tremendous work rate and can cover tons of ground for us. She is a great leader on the field and leads by example. Her versatility will give us depth at every position on the field."