Sept. 24, 2008
COLLEGE STATION, Texas - Freshmen Rachael Balaguer, Becca Herrera and Bri Young were selected as the Coaches' Spotlight of the Week, the Texas A&M coaching staff announced on Wednesday.
The defensive trio's smothering play against No. 16 California helped the Aggie soccer team to a 1-0 shutout. In addition, each freshman started and played a full 90 minutes in a 2-1 win at Rice.
Balaguer, Herrera and Young can be seen on both sides of the field, making key defensive stops, setting up the attack and taking shots of their own. Herrera recorded two shots against Cal, while Young tallied four shots in the two matches.
From Austin, Texas, Balaguer slide tackled and won the ball from a Rice player in the 14th minute on Sunday to set up one of the early scoring opportunities. Balaguer remained determined throughout the match and with nine minutes remaining in the game she controlled the ball on the right side and sent a ball into the penalty area that resulted in the game-winning goal.
Herrera is a product of Aurora, Colo., and is called upon to take corner kicks with a precise left foot. She is also seen pushing the ball up the field on the dribble and already has three assists this season.
Young was a teammate of Herrera's on the Real Colorado club team. Her powerful right foot, height and athleticism make her an offensive threat in addition to her great defensive play. A native of Castle Pines North, Colo., Young can be used on both ends of a free kick as she is one of the best to deliver and is also great in the air.
The Coaches' Spotlight of the Week is new this season as the A&M coaching staff highlights players who made a great impact in team success the previous week.