FRANCISCOVICH AWARDED AN NCAA POSTGRADUATE SCHOLARSHIP

(Feb. 28) Emory University goalkeeper Amy Franciscovich has been awarded a $7,500 Postgraduate Scholarship by the NCAA.  She joins former Eagles Hillary Burdette (1992), Caroline Hoit (2000), Andrea Pawliczek and Anne Schenck (2001) as Emory Women's Soccer players who have been awarded the scholarship. Amy becomes the 54th Emory University athlete to receive the scholarship from the NCAA, and the 37th since the start of the 2000-01 school year.

Franciscovich, who returned for a fifth season after red-shirting the 2004 season with an injury, was able to set a number of school records in her final season in an Eagles uniform.  The most impressive of the records came against Case Western Reserve University (Ohio) on Senior Day, as Franciscovich recorded her 48th-career win, setting a new school record.  Franciscovich ended her career with the most shutouts and minutes played in school history, third in saves, and fourth in goals against average.

Amy, who is majoring in Chemistry, recorded a grade point average of 3.91 during her time at Emory.  She plans to use the scholarship funds to attend medical school.

The NCAA awards up to 174 postgraduate scholarships annually, 87 for men and 87 for women of all Divisions. The scholarships are awarded to student-athletes who excel academically and athletically and who are in their final year of intercollegiate athletics competition.  The one-time grants of $7,500 each are awarded for fall sports, winter sports and spring sports. Each sports season (fall, winter and spring), there are 29 scholarships available for men and 29 scholarships available for women.

SIX EAGLES NAMED ALL-CONFERENCE HONOREES

(Nov. 14) Six members of the Emory University women's soccer team were named to the all-University Athletic Association (UAA) team for their performances during the 2006 season.  Laurel O'Neal was named to the all-conference first team, Joyce Lam earned a spot on the second team, and Jessie Dean, Amy Franciscovich, Grace Lam, and Alexa Wahr were named all-conference honorable mentions.

This is the first time O'Neal, a senior, has been named to the all-conference first team.  The defender had previously received all-UAA honorable mentions in 2003 and 2004, along with a spot on the all-South Region third team in 2005.  O'Neal was the leader of an Eagles defense that outscored opponents 38-17 during the 2006 season.

Joyce Lam's spot of the all-Conference second team is the first post-season honor of her career.  The sophomore forward finished the 2006 season with four goals and six assists, and started all of Emory's 17 games during the season.

Dean and Franciscovich, the team's senior co-captains along with O'Neal, each earned their second all-conference honorable mention.  Dean, who finished the year with four goals and three assists, earned her second conference honor, after receiving an honorable mention to the all-UAA team in 2003.  Franciscovich, who started all 17 games in goal for Emory, was also an all-conference honorable mention in 2003, along with being a member of the all-South region third team and all-UAA first team in 2005.

Grace Lam and Alexa Wahr, both sophomores, received their first UAA post-season honors, each receiving all-conference honorable mentions.  Lam helped anchor the Emory defense in her first year on the squad, while Wahr, a midfielder, finished the season with two goals and three assists.

The marks the seventh time in school history that the Eagles have had six or more players receive conference honors. 

EMORY'S SECOND-HALF COMEBACK NOT ENOUGH, AS EAGLES LOSE SEASON FINALE

(Nov. 5) Emory University scored two second-half goals to close a 3-0 halftime gap, but the comeback was not enough as the Eagles lost their final game of the season to Carnegie Mellon University (Pa.) 4-2.
 
The Eagles played a strong second half, scoring two goals within an 11 minute period.  Ali Sullivan struck first for the Eagles, scoring her team-leading ninth goal in the 53rd minute of the game.  Whitney Briggs scored her sixth goal of the season in the 64th minute to pull the game to within one goal, before Carnegie Mellon scored its game-clinching fourth goal of the day.  Alexa Wahr assisted on both Emory goals.

"I'm proud of the team to change its play in the second half," said Emory Head Coach Sue Patberg.  "It's hard to change like we did and be competitive, but we were able to, and create a number of opportunities."

Sullivan finishes the 2006 season, her first on the Emory squad, leading the team in goals and points (20).  Briggs, another a newcomer to the team this season, finished the year second on the team with six goals.

The game marks the final match in an Emory uniform for the Eagles' four seniors, goalkeeper Amy Franciscovich, midfielder Jessie Dean, and defenders Rakhi Patel and Laurel O'Neal.  The four have helped the Eagles to 49 wins and two NCAA Tournament berths over the past four seasons.

The Eagles finish the 2006 campaign with a 3-3-1 record in conference play this season, and are 9-6-2 overall. 

FRANCISCOVICH DISCUSSES HER THE WINS RECORD, HER CAREER AND HER FUTURE

Nov. 3

With her win over Case Western Reserve on October 29, Amy Franciscovich set the Emory record for wins in a career with 48.

Even more remarkable is that Franciscovich set the record as a fifth-year senior, choosing to rejoin the team and use her final season of eligibility left after she missed her junior year with a knee injury.

"Ironically enough, I really wasn't following the record at all in my own mind," Franciscovich said. "I really was unaware of the existence of such a record and my proximity to it. But I guess I've never been a statistician."

Still, Franciscovich is no stranger to setting records. She already owns the career record for shutouts (32)-she leads by 11. She also has the season record for shutouts with 12, a record she captured during her sophomore year.

"But it's pretty neat," she added. "My dad was looking back at it and said, ‘You know 48 wins, Amy, that means 12 wins each year.' That's a pretty good percentage."

Here win percentage might be a bit more than "pretty good" at .729 coming into her last game.

Franciscovich had quite an interesting career at Emory, coming in at the age of 17, a year younger than the rest of her class, spanning the injury, all the way through her fifth-year.

Coach Sue Patberg credits Franciscovich's success to her passion.

"When Amy commits to something she is going to give it her all," Patberg said. "She has such zest for life and wants to experience so many things that she absolutely takes advantage of her training and the opportunities she creates for herself on and off the field."

In what has been the toughest season of her career, Franciscovich has showed that commitment this year. Franciscovich decided to come back for a fifth-season along with classmate Lauren Hudak who had also missed a season with a knee injury, but in the second day of practice Hudak went down with another knee injury ending her comeback attempt.

"I guess it just wasn't meant to be for her," said Franciscovich, "and I guess it's just hard to come to terms with that after we debated this for a long time over the phone. We moved on as a team, but definitely I was disappointed because she's a fantastic player, person and teammate, and it was sad not to have her with us this season."

Now, with the Eagles wrapping up a the season on Sunday and needing a win to continue the program's 17-year streak of recording double digits in victories, Franciscovich said the Eagles have to keep fighting:

"We've been up and down. We've had some great wins, and we've had some very heartbreaking losses...Even coming down to Carnegie this weekend, we need to finish the season out strong because it's all about pride with that."

As for the record, Franciscovich said, "It means consistent performance to me. It's something that now I can look back on and be like, ‘Hey, you know what. Each year we put in a good effort and had a good, strong season.'"

After Sunday, Franciscovich will hang up her cleats and gloves and take off her Eagles jersey for the last time, but she is ready to enter the next phase of her life.

"I'm looking at a lot of different options," Franciscovich said. "I'm still really up in the air. Something in a health-related field probably, whether it's research or medicine, I'm not sure yet, or public health, something along those lines."

The gregarious Franciscovich then paused just a half second before adding, "Maybe a soccer coach."

EMORY'S AMY FRANCISCOVICH AND JESSIE DEAN EARN CoSIDA ACADEMIC HONORS

Nov. 3

Emory University seniors Amy Franciscovich (Frederick, MD) and Jessie Dean (Boca Raton, FL) have been chosen to the College of Sports Information Directors of America (CoSIDA) Academic All-District III second team in the College Division.  The voting was done by CoSIDA members in the district which is comprised of institutions located in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia.

Franciscovich, a goalkeeper, carries an outstanding GPA of 3.91 in her chemistry major.  On the field, she has posted six shutouts this year in helping the Emory to an overall record of 9-5-2.  Last Sunday (Oct. 29), she established herself as the winningest goalkeeper in school history as a 1-0 triumph over Case Western represented her 48th career victory.  The owner of 73 games played during her career, 71 as a starter, she stands third on the school's all-time chart in saves (263) and holds down the fourth sport in goals-against average (0.58 gaa).  This year's nod to the second team marks her second CoSIDA Academic honor.  In 2003, Franciscovich garnered a first-team berth on the Academic All-District III Team.

Dean, a midfielder, earned a spot by virtue of her 3.61 GPA in her psychology major.  She has started all 16 Emory contests and stands tied for fourth on the squad in scoring with 11 points on four goals and three assists.  A starter in 50 of 57 career games, she has registered nine goals and 12 assists for 30 points.

To be eligible for CoSIDA Academic nomination, the student-athlete must be a starter or important reserve and carry at least a 3.20 cumulative grade-point average (on a 4.0 scale). He/she must have reached sophomore athletic and academic standing and must have completed at least one full academic year at the institution. 

EMORY WOMEN'S SOCCER TO CONCLUDE ITS REGULAR SEASON

Nov. 1

GAME FACTS - Emory University will play its final game of the 2006 campaign, as the Eagles will travel to Carnegie Mellon University (Pa.) on Sunday.  Emory enters the game with a 12-2-0 all-time record and three consecutive wins against the Tartans.  Last season, the Eagles defeated the Tartans 2-1, with help from a Jillian Brady goal and a Joyce Lam assist.  In three career games against Carnegie Mellon, goalkeeper Amy Franciscovich has compiled a 2-1 record, playing all 270 minutes, allowing two goals and making 14 saves.

THE COACHES - Emory is led by second-year Head Coach Sue Patberg (Massachusetts, '89).  In her first year with the Eagles, Patberg led the program to an overall record of 13-3-2 which included a berth in the NCAA Tournament.  In 14 years as a head coach, which includes stints at Minnesota and Georgia, Patberg has manufactured a career mark of 169-95-22.  She is assisted by Jene Baclawski.

Carnegie Mellon is coached by second-year head coach Sue Willard.  Willard is 19-12-3 in her two seasons with the Tartans.  She is assisted by Tony Mohammed.

THE RECORDS - The Eagles enter the game with a 9-5-2 record this season, including a 4-1-2 record in their last seven games.  Emory is in fourth place in the University Athletic Association (UAA) with a 3-2-1 conference record.

The Tartans will enter Sunday's match-up with a 7-7-1 record during the 2006 campaign.  Carnegie Mellon has a 2-4-0 record in the UAA, good for fifth in the conference.

EMORY NOTES - Emory will be playing for its tenth win of the season on Sunday... The Eagles have won at least 10 games in each of the team's previous 17 seasons... Amy Franciscovich set the school record for career wins against Case Western Reserve University (Ohio), recording her 48th career win last Sunday... Franciscovich, a senior, will end her career first in school history in wins and shutouts, third in saves and fourth in goals against average... Ali Sullivan leads the Eagles in scoring this season with eight goals and two assists for 18 points... Kerri Lydon has scored five goals and six assists for 16 points, and Joyce Lam has four goals and six assists for 14 points... Sunday's game will be the final Emory game for seniors Franciscovich, Jessie Dean, Laurel O'Neal and Rakhi Patel.

FRANCISCOVICH SETS GOALKEEPING RECORD AS THE EAGLES DEFEAT CASE

(Oct. 29) Emory University's Amy Franciscovich ended the final home game of her collegiate career in style, setting a new school record with her 48th career victory in a 1-0 Eagles win over Case Western Reserve University (Ohio).

The win moves Franciscovich ahead of former Eagle Andrea Pawliczek (‘01C) for the most wins by a goalkeeper in the history of the Emory women's soccer team.  Franciscovich played all 90 minutes of the game, recording the 32nd shutout of her career, 11 more than any other Emory goalkeeper.  The senior improved to 8-5-2 this season with a 0.90 goals against average and six shutouts.

Eagles' forward Whitney Briggs scored the loan goal of the game.  After Briggs' shot attempt off a corner kick in the 15th minute was deflected, Briggs put the rebound into the goal.  The score was Briggs' fifth of the season.

The remainder of the game would be a hard-fought, aggressive defensive battle, as the referees called 25 fouls and issued four cards during the match.

"It was kind of an ugly game with all the fouls," said Emory head coach Sue Patberg.  "I am proud that we were able to keep our cool and finish out the game."

The final home game of the season also marked senior day for Emory, during which the Eagles honored graduating seniors Franciscovich, Rakhi Patel, Jessie Dean, and Laurel O'Neal.

"I am happy for our seniors to win their last home game at Emory," said Patberg.

With the win, Emory improved to 9-5-2 this season, and 3-2-1 in conference games.  The Eagles will travel to Carnegie Mellon University (Pa.) next weekend, to play their final game of the 2006 regular season.

EMORY WOMEN'S SOCCER TEAM DROPS HARD-FOUGHT 2-1 DECISION TO NO. 13-RANKED ROCHESTER

(Oct. 27) The Emory women's soccer team fell behind early and saw a determined comeback fall just short as it came out on the short end of a 2-1 decision to the No. 13-ranked University of Rochester in a University Athletic Association contest played at the Woodruff Soccer Field.  The loss dropped Emory's overall record to 8-5-2 (2-2-1 in UAA).  The Yellowjackets saw their record climb to 12-1-3 in overall play, 3-1-1 in conference affairs.

The match opened in wet weather that had entrenched itself in Atlanta for the entire day.  The visiting Rochester squad got on the board first at the 17:45 mark on a goal by Mary Walsh.  Darby Grant then increased the margin to 2-0 at the 41:47 on a shot that eluded Emory goalkeeper Amy Franciscovich.

After being outshot by a 5-1 margin in the opening 45 minutes, the Eagles regrouped and came out strong in the second half that resulted in a goal by sophomore Kerri Lydon, her fifth of the campaign, at 53:38.  Emory kept the pressure on and had an excellent chance to tie the game later on when the Rochester goalkeeper was out of position.  However, a shot by Whitney Briggs was cleared out of harm's way by a Yellowjackets defender.

Rochester finished the contest with a 12-7 edge in shot attempts while each team posted one corner kick.  Franciscovich concluded the match with six saves while her counterpart, Molley Leitch, registered four stops.

"I thought that Rochester had the better of us in the first half but we changed our plan at halftime and I thought that our players did a great job of executing that plan," Emory Head Coach Sue Patberg said.   "We got that first goal early in the second half and had a great chance to get another but it didn't go our way.  Even though we did not get the result we wanted, I'm proud of the team's effort against a real fine Rochester team."

Emory closes out the home portion of its 2006 season on Sunday (Oct. 29) at 11:00 a.m., when it hosts Case Western.

EMORY WOMEN'S SOCCER TO PLAY FINAL HOME GAMES AS FRANCISCOVICH LOOKS TO SET RECORD

Oct. 25

GAME FACTS - Emory University will play its final two home games of the season, taking on its University Athletic Association (UAA) opponents, the University of Rochester (N.Y.) and Case Western Reserve University (Ohio).  Eagles' goalkeeper Amy Franciscovich, currently tied for the school record in career wins, will have an opportunity to set a new record in the final two home games of her career.

The Eagles will face off against the Rochester on Friday, in what promises to be a defensive battle.  In the previous nine meetings between the two teams, neither has scored more than one goal in the game.  The teams have split the last four games, each of which has ended in a score of 1-0.  In three career games against the Yellowjackets, Franciscovich has allowed two goals in 270 minutes and made 22 saves.

Emory will enter its Sunday match against Case Western Reserve with an 18-0-1 all-time record against the Spartans.  Julia Sanders, Laurel O'Neal and Jamie English each have an assist in their careers against Case, while Franciscovich has compiled a 3-0 record, allowing one goal in 259 minutes played against the Spartans.

Highlight Reel Productions will be offering Live Webcasting with announcing of Emory Men's and Women's Soccer and Volleyball home games this fall.  Games will be available to watch live and on-demand online, and DVDs can be ordered.    Please visit HRPTV.com to gain access to the games.

THE COACHES - Emory is led by second-year Head Coach Sue Patberg (Massachusetts, '89).  In her first year with the Eagles, Patberg led the program to an overall record of 13-3-2 which included a berth in the NCAA Tournament.  In 14 years as a head coach, which includes stints at Minnesota and Georgia, Patberg has manufactured a career mark of 168-94-22. 

Rochester is coached by Terry Gurnett, who has the most wins in Division III women's soccer history.  Gurnett holds a 371-114-51 record in 29 years as a head coach at Rochester.  Case is coached by Emily Donovan, who is in her seventh season as head coach of the Spartans.

THE RECORDS - Emory enters the game with a 3-0-2 record in its last five games, and an 8-4-2 record overall this season.  The Eagles are tied with Rochester for second in the UAA with a 2-1-1 record in conference play. 

The Yellowjackets enter the game ranked 13th in the nation and second in the New York Region.  Rochester is 11-1-3 overall this season, with a 2-1-1 conference record.  The Spartans enter the game sixth in the UAA with a 1-2-1 conference record, and are 5-9-1 overall this year.

EMORY NOTES - The Eagles improved to 8-4-2 this season, picking up a 12-0 victory against Mary Baldwin College (Va.) on Sunday... The Eagles' 59 shots in the game are the most in a single game by an Emory team... The 12 Emory goals are one short of the school record... Emory's defense did not allow a shot to its opponent for the second time this season against Mary Baldwin... Franciscovich played the first half in goal for Emory to record the victory and extend her scoreless-minutes streak to the last 480 minutes of play... Franciscovich has not allowed a goal in her last five starts... Kerri Lydon scored the first goal of the game for the Eagles in the fourth minute, and later added another goal and three assists... Her three assists are the second-highest single game total in school history... Whitney Briggs and Ali Sullivan each added two goals of their own for Emory... Sullivan leads the Eagles in goals (eight) and points (18) this season... The Eagles sit in second place in the UAA, and are still in contention for the conference title and an automatic berth into the NCAA Tournament... The most likely scenario for Emory to win the conference would be for the Eagles to win each of their final three games, and for Washington University (Mo.) to go 1-2-0 over its last three contests.

FRANCISCOVICH TIES SCHOOL WIN RECORD IN A 12-0 VICTORY

(Oct. 22) Emory University goalkeeper Amy Franciscovich recorded her 47th career win to tie the school record, as the Eagles cruised to a 12-0 victory over Mary Baldwin College (Va.).

Franciscovich played the first half in goal for Emory to record the victory and extend her scoreless streak to the last 480 minutes of play.  Franciscovich, who has not allowed a goal in her last five starts, will attempt to break the school record for career wins on Friday, as the Eagles will take on the University of Rochester (N.Y.). 

On the offensive end, the Eagles struck early and often.  Kerri Lydon scored the first goal of the game for the Eagles in the fourth minute, and later added another goal and three assists.  Her three assists are the second-highest single game total in school history. Whitney Briggs and Ali Sullivan each added two goals of their own for Emory.

Emory set or came close to a number of team records in the victory.  The Eagles 59 shots are the most in a single game by an Emory team and the 12 Eagle goals are one short of the school record.  Emory's defense held strong as well, not allowing a shot to its opponent for the second time this season.

The Eagles improve to 8-4-2 with the victory, and are 3-0-2 in their last five games.  Emory will return to the Woodruff P.E. Center next weekend, as the Eagles will play their final two home games of the season against University Athletic Association (UAA) rivals the University of Rochester and Case Western Reserve University (Ohio).

EMORY WOMEN'S SOCCER TO PLAY MARY BALDWIN COLLEGE

Oct. 18

GAME FACTS - Emory University will head to Virginia to continue its three-game road trip, where the Eagles will face the Mary Baldwin College Squirrels on Sunday.  This will be the first meeting between the two teams. 

Highlight Reel Productions will be offering Live Webcasting with announcing of Emory Men's and Women's Soccer and Volleyball home games this fall.  Games will be available to watch live and on-demand online, and DVDs can be ordered.    Please visit HRPTV.com to gain access to the games.

THE COACHES - Emory is led by second-year Head Coach Sue Patberg (Massachusetts, '89).  In her first year with the Eagles, Patberg led the program to an overall record of 13-3-2 which included a berth in the NCAA Tournament.  In 14 years as a head coach, which includes stints at Minnesota and Georgia, Patberg has manufactured a career mark of 167-94-22. 

Mary Baldwin is coached by Sandy Lagana, who is in her first year as head coach of the Squirrels.  Lagana is assisted by Homes Tehrani.

THE RECORDS - Emory enters the game with a 2-0-2 record in its last four games, and a 7-4-2 record overall this season.  The Eagles are tied for second in the University Athletic Association with a 2-1-1 in conference play.  Last weekend, the Eagles picked up a 1-0 win against New York University and played to a scoreless tie against Brandeis University (Mass.).

The Squirrels hold a 3-8-0 record during the 2006 campaign.  Two of their three wins this season have come at home.

EMORY NOTES - Emory goalkeeper Amy Franciscovich will attempt to tie the school record for wins, taking her 46 career victories into Sunday's match... Former Eagle Andrea Pawliczek ('01) currently holds the record with 47 wins... Franciscovich is 6-4-2 this season with a 0.92 goals-against average and five shutouts... She has recorded shutouts in four consecutive games for the Eagles... Franciscovich has not allowed a goal in her last 435 minutes of play... The Eagles have outscored their opponents 22-11 this season, and out-shot the opposition 252-104... Emory's leading scorer this season is Ali Sullivan, who has six goals and two assists for 14 points... Joyce Lam leads the Eagles with four assists this season.

EMORY WOMEN'S SOCCER TIES WITH BRANDEIS

(Oct. 16) Emory University moved into a tie for second place in the University Athletic Association (UAA), after playing a 0-0 game against Brandeis University (Mass.).

The Eagles out-shot Brandeis 18-12 in the game, including a 9-0 shot advantage in the two overtime periods.  The Eagles have compiled more shots than their opponents in 12 of 13 games this season.

Emory goalkeeper Amy Franciscovich recorded her fourth consecutive shutout, making eight saves during the game.  The senior co-captain, who increased her school record to 31 career shutouts, has not allowed a goal in her last 435 minutes in goal.  Franciscovich lowered her season's goals against average to 0.92.

Alexa Wahr took four shots in the game for Emory, including a potential game-winner in the 79th minute that was deflected by a Brandeis midfielder.  Joyce Lam added four shots for the Eagles, including one on goal.

Emory moves to 7-4-2 overall this season, and is tied with Rochester University (N.Y.) for second place in the UAA with a 2-1-1 conference record.  The Eagles will be in action again on Sunday, when they will travel to Staunton, VA for a match against Mary Baldwin College (Va.).

EMORY WOMEN'S SOCCER WINS ITS SECOND UAA GAME IN A ROW

(Oct. 13) Amy Franciscovich recorded her third-consecutive shutout, leading Emory University to a 2-0 win over University Athletic Association (UAA) rival New York University.

The shutout was the 30th of Franciscovich's career, adding to her school record.  The senior co-captain earned her 46th career win during the game, moving her within one victory of tying Andrea Pawliczek's ('01) school record of 47 career wins.  Franciscovich is 6-4-1 with a 1.03 goals against average this season.

The two teams battled through a scoreless first half, before the Eagles' Alexa Wahr broke though for her second goal of the season in 69th minute, off of a Kerri Lydon cross.  Nine minutes later, junior forward Whitney Briggs scored her second goal in the last three games off of an assist from Jessie Dean to clinch the game for Emory.

The Eagles continued to outshoot their opponents, taking 21 shots to New York's six.  Emory has out-shot its opponents 234-92 this year.

Emory moved into second place in the conference with the victory, improving to 2-1-0 this season in conference play.  The Eagles, 7-4-1 overall this season, have gone 2-0-1 in their last three games.  Emory will continue its conference schedule on Sunday, when the Eagles will travel to Brandeis University (Mass.) to play the Judges.

EMORY WOMEN'S SOCCER TO CONTINUE CONFERENCE PLAY
Oct. 11

GAME FACTS - Emory University will travel to New York University and Brandeis University (Mass.) as the Eagles will be taking on two University Athletic Association (UAA) rivals this weekend. 

On Friday, the Eagles will play New York for the 12th time.  The Eagles are 8-0-3 all time against the Violets, including a 1-0 win in overtime last season.  Jillian Brady assisted on Nancy Wilson's ('06) "golden goal" last season.

Emory is 12-5-2 all time against Brandeis, the team's opponent on Sunday.  The Eagles won a 1-0 game in overtime last season against Brandeis, when Jessie Dean assisted on another Nancy Wilson "golden goal."  Dean has two career assists in three games against Brandeis.

Highlight Reel Productions will be offering Live Webcasting with announcing of Emory Men's and Women's Soccer and Volleyball home games this fall.  Games will be available to watch live and on-demand online, and DVDs can be ordered.    Please visit HRPTV.com to gain access to the games.

THE COACHES - Emory is led by second-year Head Coach Sue Patberg (Massachusetts, '89).  In her first year with the Eagles, Patberg led the program to an overall record of 13-3-2 which included a berth in the NCAA Tournament.  In 14 years as a head coach, which includes stints at Minnesota and Georgia, Patberg has manufactured a career mark of 166-94-21. 

New York is coached by Amanda Vandervort, who has compiled a 24-35-4 record in four seasons with the Violets.  Brandeis is led by head coach Denise Dallamora, who is the only coach in the program's history.

THE RECORDS - Emory enters the game with five wins in its last eight games, and a 6-4-1 record overall this season.  The Eagles are 1-1-0 and tied for fourth in the UAA after defeating the University of Chicago 1-0 in Atlanta last weekend.  Emory finished last week 1-0-1 after playing to a scoreless tie with Rhodes College (Tenn.).

The Violets enter the game with a 5-4-1 record and are tied for seventh in the UAA with a 0-2-0 record.  Brandeis is 6-3-2 overall this season and are sixth in the UAA with an 0-0-2 conference record.

EMORY NOTES - Emory goalkeeper Amy Franciscovich has 45 career wins, two short of tying the school record... Former Eagle Andrea Pawliczek ('01) currently holds the record with 47 wins... Franciscovich is 5-4-1 this season with a 1.13 goals-against average and three shutouts... She has recorded shutouts in two consecutive games for the Eagles, and was named the UAA Athlete of the Week last week ... Emory's leading scorer this season is Ali Sullivan, who has six goals and two assists for 14 points... Joyce Lam leads the Eagles with four assists this season.

EMORY'S FRANCISCOVICH NAMED UAA SOCCER DEFENSIVE ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

(Oct. 10) Emory University goalkeeper Amy Franciscovich was named the University Athletic Association defensive athlete of the week for women's soccer.  The senior co-captain held the opposition scoreless for 200 minutes in a 1-0-1 week for the Eagles.  Franciscovich made five saves in a 1-0 shutout of the University of Chicago before coming back the following day with six saves in a double-overtime scoreless draw with Rhodes College.  She currently holds the school record for career shutouts with 29 and is second in school history with 45 career wins.

EMORY AND RHODES BATTLE TO SCORELESS TIE

(Oct. 8) Emory University played 110 minutes of scoreless soccer with Rhodes College (TN), as the two teams battled to a 0-0 tie.

Emory goalkeeper Amy Franciscovich played the entire game in goal for the Eagles, recording her 29th career shutout, and second in as many games.  The senior co-captain converted on six saves, and lowered her season goals against average to 1.13.  Franciscovich currently sits two wins shy of tying the school record in career victories.

The Eagles out-shot their opponent 25-7 during the course of the game, including a 14-2 shot advantage in the second half.  Sophomore forward Joyce Lam added six shots for the Eagles, three of which were on goal.  Lam's 23 shots on goal this season lead all Emory players.

"The effort was incredible all weekend long," said Emory Head Coach Sue Patberg.  "I'm very proud of the way we played, first against Chicago, and then today against Rhodes."

Emory's record moves to 6-4-1 with the tie.  The Eagles will travel to New York University and Brandeis University (Ma.) next weekend to continue conference play.

EMORY DEFEATS CONFERENCE-RIVAL UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO

(Oct. 7) The Emory University women's soccer team won its first University Athletic Association (UAA) game of the season, defeating the University of Chicago (Ill.) 1-0.

Whitney Briggs scored the lone goal of the game for Emory, her first as an Eagle, at the 60 minute mark.  That would be all that the Eagles' defense would need, as Emory held its opponent to six shots during the game.

"This was a very important win for us, in terms of our goal of winning the UAA and playing in the postseason," said Emory Head Coach Sue Patberg.

Goalkeeper Amy Franciscovich recorded her 45th career win and 28th career shutout, making five saves during the Emory victory.  Franciscovich, who already holds the school record for career shutouts, is now two wins shy of tying Andrea Pawliczek's ('01) school record of 47 career wins.

The Eagles have now won five of their last seven games to improve to 6-4-0 this season and 1-1-0 in conference play.

"We had a good week in practice, and we regrouped from our conference loss to Washington University (Mo.) last week," commented Patberg.  "The 4-0 loss hurt, and we were motivated to not feel that way again."

The Eagles will be in action on Sunday, when they will host Rhodes College (Tenn.) at 1:00 PM.

EMORY WOMEN'S SOCCER TO PLAY FIRST CONFERENCE HOME GAME

Oct. 3

GAME FACTS - Emory University will play its first University Athletic Association (UAA) home game of the season, as the Eagles will face off against the University of Chicago (Ill.) on Saturday.  This will be the 20th meeting between the two teams, with the Eagles holding a 11-7-1 advantage in the previous 19 meetings. 

Highlight Reel Productions will be offering Live Webcasting with announcing of Emory Men's and Women's Soccer and Volleyball home games this fall.  Games will be available to watch live and on-demand online, and DVDs can be ordered.    Please visit HRPTV.com to gain access to the games.

THE COACHES - Emory is led by second-year Head Coach Sue Patberg (Massachusetts, '89).  In her first year with the Eagles, Patberg led the program to an overall record of 13-3-2 which included a berth in the NCAA Tournament.  In 14 years as a head coach, which includes stints at Minnesota and Georgia, Patberg has manufactured a career mark of 165-94-20. 

The University of Chicago is coached by Amy Reifert, who is in her 16th season with the Maroons.  Reifert has compiled a 196-73-30 record, and was named the NCAA Division III Coach of the Year in 1996.

THE RECORDS - Emory enters the game with four wins in their last six games, and a 5-4-0 record overall this season.  The Eagles have lost their only other conference game this season, dropping their conference opener to Washington University (Mo.) last week.  The Eagles also suffered a 1-0 defeated against Webster University (Mo.) last Sunday, despite out-shooting their opponent 23-13.

The University of Chicago enters the game with a 7-1-1 record this season, and a 1-0-0 conference record this year.  The Maroons won their conference opener last weekend against Carnegie Mellon University (Pa.).

EMORY NOTES - Emory University has not lost a regular-season home game since October 2nd, 2004, going 15-0-1 during that stretch... Emory goalkeeper Amy Franciscovich has 44 career wins, three short of tying the school record... Former Eagle Andrea Pawliczek ('01) currently holds the record with 47 wins... Franciscovich is 4-4-0 this season with a 1.47 goals-against average and one shutout... Emory's leading scorer this season is Ali Sullivan, who has six goals and two assists for 14 points... Joyce Lam leads the Eagles with four assists this season.

EMORY WOMEN'S SOCCER TO BEGIN CONFERENCE PLAY

Sept. 27

GAME FACTS - Emory University will open its conference schedule on Saturday against University Athletic Association (UAA) rival Washington University (Mo.).  This will be the 18th meeting between the two teams, with the Eagles holding a 13-3-1 record in the previous meetings.  Emory defeated Washington 1-0 last season, with goalkeeper Amy Franciscovich recording the shutout for the Eagles.
On Sunday, Emory will play a non-conference game against Webster University in St. Louis, MO.  This will be the first match between the two teams.

Highlight Reel Productions will be offering Live Webcasting with announcing of Emory Men's and Women's Soccer and Volleyball home games this fall.  Games will be available to watch live and on-demand online, and DVDs can be ordered.    Please visit HRPTV.com to gain access to the games.

THE COACHES - Emory is led by second-year Head Coach Sue Patberg (Massachusetts, '89).  In her first year with the Eagles, Patberg led the program to an overall record of 13-3-2 which included a berth in the NCAA Tournament.  In 14 years as a head coach, which includes stints at Minnesota and Georgia, Patberg has manufactured a career mark of 165-92-20. 

Washington University is coached by Wendy Dillinger.  In four seasons with the Bears, Wendy holds a 52-18-8 record.  Webster is led by head coach Luigi Scire, who has recorded a 111-26-6 record in seven seasons with the school.

THE RECORDS - Emory, ranked 10th in the South Region, enters the game on Saturday with a 5-2-0 record.  The Eagles have won four consecutive games.  Last week, Emory recorded two victories, including a 3-0 shutout of Oglethorpe University (Ga.) and a 3-1 win on the road over the University of the South.

Washington is ranked 19th in the nation and third in the Central Region.  The Bears enter the game with a 7-2-0 record.  Webster currently holds a 7-2-1 record for the 2006 campaign.

EMORY NOTES - Emory had a streak of 144:26 minutes without allowing a shot to an opponent ended against Oglethorpe University (Ga.) last week... The Eagles have outshot their opponents 154-47 in seven games this season... Emory twinsJoyce and Grace Lam were each named UAA Players of the Week, Joyce for her offensive contributions, and Grace for her play on defense... Joyce Lam has two goals and two assists in her last two games.

Sept. 23

EMORY WOMEN'S SOCCER TEAM EARNS ROAD WIN AT UNIVERSITY OF THE SOUTH   

The Emory women's soccer team notched its fourth straight win this afternoon with a 3-1 win on the road against the University of the South.  The victory boosts the Eagles record to 5-2.

After falling behind at the 23:03 mark, Emory rallied to score twice before the end of the first half with sophomore Joyce Lam (Randolph, MA) picking up the first of her two goals at 33:26 and junior Ali Sullivan (Atlanta) her team-leading sixth marker of the season at 36:20.  Lam provided the Eagles an insurance tally when she registered her second score of the game and third of the year at 75:37.

Emory enjoyed a wide 24-8 margin in shot attempts with 17 of those attempts being on goal.  Senior Amy Franciscovich (Frederick, MD) made four saves in goal for Emory while running her won-lost record to 4-2 on the year.

"We are happy with the performance of the team and it was a good comeback win for us after falling behind, 1-0," Emory Head Coach Sue Patberg said.  "It was an important win for us against a regional opponent.  Now, we will prepare for our UAA opener next Saturday at Washington University."

EMORY WINS ITS THIRD GAME IN A ROW

(Sept. 20) Emory University won its third consecutive game, beating Oglethorpe University (Ga.) 3-0.

The Eagles struck early, when Laurel O'Neal scored her first goal of the season 55 seconds into the game off of a free kick.  Emory's defense held strong the rest of the way, allowing Oglethorpe to take just four shots during the game.

EMORY WOMEN'S SOCCER TO FACE OFF AGAINST THE UNIVERSITY OF THE SOUTH IN A NCAA TOURNAMENT REMATCH

GAME FACTS - The Emory University Women's soccer team will be facing off against two regional opponents this week in Oglethorpe University (Ga.) and the University of the South (Tenn.). 

Oglethorpe University will come to the Woodruff P.E. Center Wednesday night to take on the Eagles, who are undefeated at home this season.  The two teams met last season, with Emory winning 3-0.  Jessie Dean scored two goals in the game, and assisted on the third.

Emory will head to Sewanee, TN on Saturday to take on the University of the South for a rematch of last season's NCAA tournament first round match, which the Eagles won 1-0 in overtime.  During the regular season last year, the two teams played to a scoreless tie.

Highlight Reel Productions will be offering Live Webcasting with announcing of Emory Men's and Women's Soccer and Volleyball home games this fall.  Games will be available to watch live and on-demand online, and DVDs can be ordered.    Please visit HRPTV.com to gain access to the games.

THE COACHES - Emory is led by second-year Head Coach Sue Patberg (Massachusetts, '89).  In her first year with the Eagles, Patberg led the program to an overall record of 13-3-2 which included a berth in the NCAA Tournament.  In 14 years as a head coach, which includes stints at Minnesota and Georgia, Patberg has manufactured a career mark of 163-92-20. 

Oglethorpe is coached by Jon Akin.  He is assisted by his Associate Head Coach Mike Morgan, and assistant coaches Gerry Austin and Ron Apollon. 

The University of the South is led by first-year head coach Dylan Harrison.  Harrison was previously an assistant coach for the team.

THE RECORDS - After starting the season at 1-2, the Eagles have won two in a row, to improve to 3-2.  Last week, the Eagles outscored their opponents 9-1, winning games at home against Reinhart College (Ga.) and Greensboro College (NC).

Oglethorpe enters the game with a 3-2-1 record.  The University of the South sits at 4-1-0 entering the weekend match.

EMORY NOTES - The Eagles tied a school record by not allowing a shot in their game against Greensboro College (NC)...  Emory has out-shot its opponents 104-35 through its first five games... The Eagles are 14-0-1 in their last 15 regular season games at home... Emory has not lost a regular season home game since October 2nd, 2004... Newcomer Ali Sullivan leads the Eagles with five goals and 11 points in five games this season.

EMORY SHUTS OUT GREENSBORO WITH A 2-0 WIN

(Sept. 17) Emory University did not allow a shot to Greensboro College (NC), shutting out their opponent 2-0.

Jamie English scored both of the Eagle goals in the game.  After being held scoreless through the first half, English scored the first Eagle goal just over four minutes into the second half.  Three minutes and twenty seconds later, English struck again, scoring off a corner kick from Jillian Brady. 

"We changed our system in the second half," said Emory coach Sue Patberg.  "We tried to find our forwards' feet and get around the defense by going outside."

The two goals from English were her first of the year.  The junior now has five points this season.

The Emory defense held strong, as the Eagles out-shot Greensboro 31-0 during the course of the game.  This season, Emory has out-shot its opponents 104-35.

"It's great to get a shutout," said Coach Patberg.  "We haven't had one in a while.  We would have liked more goals, because we had a lot of opportunities, but this was an important win for us."

Emory improves to 3-2-0 this season.  The Eagles will next be in action on Wednesday, September 20th, when they will face off against a cross-town rival in Oglethorpe University.

SULLIVAN PICKS UP THE HAT TRICK IN AN EAGLES WIN

(Sept. 13) Ali Sullivan scored the first hat trick of her Emory University career, and Jessie Dean added two more goals, as the Eagles defeated Reinhardt College (Ga.) 7-1.

The Eagles fell behind early, after allowing a goal in the 17th minute of play.  Emory tied the game less than seven minutes later, when Joyce Lam scored on a pass from Sullivan and Jessie Dean.  After a Dean goal put the Eagles on top for good, Sullivan took the game over.

Sullivan's first goal of the day came as time was expiring in the first half.  The junior forward picked up where she left off in the second half, scoring two more goals in the first five minutes of play.  Sullivan leads the Eagles with five goals and 11 points this season.

"We worked on finishing in practice this week," said Emory Coach Sue Patberg.  "It was great to see the instant results tonight.  We played some good soccer, and it was much needed."

Jessie Dean added two goals and an assist for the Eagles.  Kerri Lydon and Joyce Lam each had a goal and an assist as well.

With the win, Emory University improves to 2-2-0.  The Eagles are now undefeated in their last 14 home games, going 13-0-1 during the stretch.  Emory will next be in action on Sunday against Greensboro College (NC).     

Sept. 13

EMORY WOMEN'S SOCCER TO BEGIN THREE-GAME HOME STAND

GAME FACTS - The Emory University Women's soccer team will be coming back to Atlanta this week to play the first two games of a three-game home stand.  The Eagles will face off against Reinhardt College (Ga.) on Wednesday night at 7:00 PM, and Greensboro College (NC) on Sunday afternoon at 1:00 PM.

This will be the first time Emory will face Reinhardt College.  Reinhardt College is a member of the Southern States Athletics Conference (SSAC) and the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA).

The Eagles are undefeated against Greensboro College, winning all eight previous meetings between the two teams.  Emory picked up a 5-0 win when the teams met last season.  Joyce Lam had a goal and an assist for the Eagles in the game. 

Highlight Reel Productions will be offering Live Webcasting with announcing of Emory Men's and Women's Soccer and Volleyball home games this fall.  Games will be available to watch live and on-demand online, and DVDs can be ordered.    Please visit HRPTV.com to gain access to the games.

THE COACHES - Emory is led by second-year Head Coach Sue Patberg (Massachusetts, '89).  In her first year with the Eagles, Patberg led the program to an overall record of 13-3-2 which included a berth in the NCAA Tournament.  In 14 years as a head coach, which includes stints at Minnesota and Georgia, Patberg has manufactured a career mark of 161-92-20. 

Reinhardt is coached by Andy Kaplan, who is beginning his 5th season as head coach of the Lady Eagles. 

Greensboro is led by first-year head coach Franco Bari.  Bari comes to Greensboro after compiling a 47-39-5 record at Elmira College (NY).

THE RECORDS - Emory will begin the week with a 1-2-0 record.  The Eagles began their 2004 season 1-2-0, before finishing the campaign with a 13-7-0 record, winning the University Athletic Association conference title, and advancing to the second round in the NCAA tournament.

Reinhardt College will enter its game against Emory with a 3-1-0 record.  Greensboro College will enter the week looking for its first win of the season, after starting the year with a 0-4-0 record.

EMORY NOTES - The Eagles are 12-0-1 in their last 13 regular season games at home... Emory has not lost a regular season home game since October 2nd, 2004... The Eagles have out-shot their opponents 44-28 through their first three games... Newcomer Ali Sullivan leads the Eagles with two goals and four points in three games this season.  

Sept. 10, 2006

LYNCHBURG EDGES EMORY WOMEN'S SOCCER SQUAD

The Lynchburg College women's soccer team scored twice in the game's last seven minutes to come away with a 2-0 decision over Emory University in the second day of action at the Guilford College Classic in Greensboro, NC.  With the setback the Eagles fall to 1-2 on the campaign while Lynchburg improves to 3-0-1.

After a scoreless first half that saw each team record six shot attempts, Lynchburg, ranked 19th in the NSCAA/adidas Poll, snapped the scoreless tie at 83:45 on a goal by Sara Butsavage off a corner kick taken by Ashley Hoath.  Lynchburg then got an insurance tally at 85:26 when Audrea Hamby scored from close range.

For the contest, Emory enjoyed a slight edge in both shot attempts (12-11) and corner kicks (5-4).  Emory senior goalkeeper Amy Franciscovich (Frederick, MD) finished the game with four saves.

"It was a disappointing loss because we had lots of chances," Emory Head Coach Sue Patberg said.  "We could not buy a goal in this game.  We have to finish the opportunities that we create for ourselves.  Plus, after playing a man down in most of Saturday's game and being injured we might have run out of legs.  But, we are going to have to regroup and get ready for Wednesday night."

EMORY WOMEN'S DROPS OPENER IN THE GUILFORD CLASSIC

Emory University lost to Guilford College (NC) 2-1 in the team's opening game of the Guilford College Classic.

The Eagles (1-1-0) were forced to play with only ten players on the field for the majority of the game, after a red card was issued to Emory in the first half.  The resulting free kick was converted for a goal by Guilford College.

"We had to play down a player," said Emory coach Sue Patberg, "but we played well, and created a lot of scoring opportunities."

One of those scoring opportunities was converted in the second half by Ali Sullivan, who tied the game with her second goal of the season.  She was assisted on the scoring play by Kerri Lydon.

Emory will face off against Lynchburg College tomorrow in its final game of the tournament.

Sept. 6

EMORY WOMEN'S SOCCER TO PLAY IN GUILFORD CLASSIC

GAME FACTS - The Emory University Women's soccer team will be headed to Greensboro, NC to take part in the Guilford College Classic.  The Eagles will play two games in the tournament, where they will face off against Guilford College on Saturday, and Lynchburg College on Sunday.  Both games will start at 1:00 PM.

Highlight Reel Productions will be offering Live Webcasting with announcing of Emory Men's and Women's Soccer and Volleyball home games this fall.  Games will be available to watch live and on-demand online, and DVDs can be ordered.    Please visit HRPTV.com to gain access to the games.

THE COACHES - Emory is led by second-year Head Coach Sue Patberg (Massachusetts, '89).  In her first year with the Eagles, Patberg led the program to an overall record of 13-3-2 which included a berth in the NCAA Tournament.  In 14 years as a head coach, which includes stints at Minnesota and Georgia, Patberg has manufactured a career mark of 160-90-20. 

Guilford head coach Eric Lewis is starting his fifth season as head coach of the Quakers.  Lewis' 45 wins at Guilford are the most in the program's history.

Dr. Todd Olsen, coach of the Lynchburg Hornets, is in his 13th season with the team.  He has led the Hornets to a 172-52-17 record during his tenure.

THE RECORDS - Emory was victorious in its season opening game on Saturday with a 3-0 win over the Savannah College of Art & Design.  Emory is ranked 18th in the nation according to d3kicks.com.
Guilford College is 0-2 to start its 2006 campaign.  The Quakers finished 2005 with a 13-6-3 record.  

Lynchburg will enter the tournament with a 1-0-1 record.  The Hornets are ranked 21st in the nation according to d3kicks.com

EMORY NOTES - The Eagles have never lost a game to Guilford College, compiling a 5-0-1 record against the Quakers in six games...Emory's shutout against the Savannah College of Art & Design in its season opener marks the 13th time since 1986 that the Eagles have shutout their opening opponent...The Eagles' defense did not allow a goal last season until the eighth game of the year...Goalkeeper Amy Franciscovich picked up her 27th career shutout in the game, adding to her school record...Team newcomers Ali Sullivan and Kerri Lydon each scored a goal in their first Emory game...Jessie Dean added her sixth career goal in the Emory win.

(SEP. 2) EAGLES OPEN SEASON WITH A WIN

Emory University won its season opening game with a 3-0 victory over the Savannah College of Art & Design (Ga.).

The Eagles got out to a quick lead in the first half, when newcomer Kerri Lydon scored in the 23rd minute off of a corner kick.  Jessie Dean and Ali Sullivan each added their first goals of the season in the second half. 

Goalkeeper Amy Franciscovich added to her school record, picking up the 27th shutout of her Emory career.  Franciscovich had three saves in the game.

Emory out-shot Savannah 18-7 for the night, including an 11-2 shot advantage after the first half.

The Eagles' (1-0) next game will be on September 9th, when they will head to Greensboro, NC to play Guilford College.

Aug. 31

EMORY WOMEN'S SOCCER OPENS 2006 CAMPAIGN

GAME FACTS -- The 2006 Emory University women's soccer team opens the program's 21st season of intercollegiate play this Saturday (Sept. 2) when it plays host to Savannah College of Art and Design.  Starting time for the season opener will be 7:30 pm.

THE COACHES - Emory is led by second-year Head Coach Sue Patberg (Massachusetts, '89).  In her first year with the Eagles, Patberg led the program to an overall record of 13-3-2 which included a berth in the NCAA Tournament.  In 14 years as a head coach, which includes stints at Minnesota and Georgia, Patberg has manufactured a career mark of 159-90-20. 

Andy Williamson (Trinity, '94) begins his fifth year as head coach of the SCAD program and stands 31-31-9.

THE RECORDS - Emory tuned up for its season opener by playing a pair of exhibition contests.  On Aug. 22, the Eagles hosted West Georgia and battled to a 1-1 deadlock.  Most recently, Emory ventured to Presbyterian College this past Monday (Aug, 28) where it came out on the short end of a 4-1 decision.  

SCAD, ranked 25th nationally among NAIA teams, invades Emory with a 2-1 record.  The Bees opened their year with wins over Brewton-Parker (8-0) and Covenant College (3-2) before dropping a close 4-3 decision to Berry College on Monday.

EMORY NOTES - Saturday's contest marks the first of four home games during the month of September for Emory ... After Saturday's game, the Eagles' next home date comes on Wednesday, Sept. 13, when they host Reinhardt College starting at 7:00 pm ... Heading into Saturday, Emory has registered an impressive 22-3-1 home record since the 2003 season ... Last year, the Eagles finished 9-1-1 in games played on their home pitch ...  Senior goalkeeper Amy Franciscovich (Frederick, MD) enters the 2006 season with a career goals-against-average of 0.51 and 201 saves in 57 career contests ... Franciscovich is one of three captains - joining her are seniors Jessie Dean (Boca Raton, FL) and Laurel O'Neal (Chapel Hill, NC).

QUOTING COACH PATBERG - (On team's excitement to open season) - "I know that the team is excited about competing and playing in a game that counts.  SCAD is ranked among the top 25 teams in NAIA and we expect them to be very good.  I want them to be good because it will help us prepare for the rest of our schedule."

(On preseason coming to an end) - "It is always fun when you come to the end of preseason because you made it through.  And that is very true for us, especially, because we slowed by injuries during the early portion of preseason.  We are starting now to get through those injuries and starting to incorporate more players into practice and get healthy as a team which is perfect timing heading into the season."

Aug. 28

PRESBYTERIAN TOPS EMORY IN WOMEN'S SOCCER EXHIBITION  

CLINTON, SC -  The Emory University women's soccer team closed out the  exhibition portion of its schedule with a 4-1 setback against Presbyterian College in a contest played on the Blue Hose home field.

All the game's scoring came in the first half with senior Jessie Dean (Boca Raton, FL) accounting for Emory's tally on a blast from 25 yards out.  Despite Dean's marker, Presbyterian was able to capitalize on some defensive lapses by the Emory en route to the win.

"We weren't playing together in the back and part of that was due to the fact that we weren't pressuring the midfield which allowed them to serve some balls that got behind our backline," Emory Head Coach Sue Patberg said.  "In the second half we changed our system and generated more scoring chances, played more in control and had better possession of the ball. 

"And while we aren't happy by taking four goals, I'm not disappointed when looking at the big picture.  We made some progression from our last scrimmage."Emory opens the regular season on Saturday (Sept. 2) when it plays host to Savannah College of Art & Design beginning at 7:30 p.m.

EMORY AND WEST GEORGIA BATTLE TO 1-1 EXHIBITION DEADLOCK

(Aug. 22) - The Emory University women's soccer team opened the exhibition portion of its schedule with a 1-1 tie against the University of West Georgia in a contest played on the Eagles' home field.

The Braves got on the board first at the 12:00 minute mark when Margret Jonsdottir scored from close range.  Emory drew even with just over a minute remaining in the opening half when forward Ali Sullivan rifled a shot from 25 yards out from the left flank.

In the second half of play, both teams had some scoring chances but neither squad could snap the deadlock.  Emory senior Amy Francisovich had to be sharp on an attempt by WGU's Melissa Hastillo 14 minutes into the second half while West Georgia's Patricia Logsdon stopped another scoring attempt by Smith at the 80 minute mark.

For the contest, West Georgia finished with an 11-7 edge in shot attempts.  Franciscovich played the whole game in goal for Emory and finished with six saves while the tandem of Jennifer Ross and Logsdon combined for one save for West Georgia.

"Overall, I was pleased with our effort, considering the fact that we have had just three days of practice and were competing against a team that had more practices under their belt," Emory Head Coach Sue Patberg said.  "Going into the match, we knew that we were not up to full speed but at the same time took the approach that we had nothing to lose.  It was great for us from a fitness and experience standpoint."

Emory will wind up the exhibition portion of the schedule next Monday evening (Aug. 28) when it plays at Presbyterian College. 

Aug. 22

EMORY WOMEN'S SOCCER TEAM PICKED FOR FOURTH
The 2006 Emory women's soccer team has been slotted fourth in the University Athletic Association coaches' preseason poll.

Defending champion University of Rochester was tabbed as the team to beat with 45 points with three first-place votes, edging out the University of Chicago's runner-up total of 42 votes.  Washington University (36 pts.) and Emory (34 pts.) each had one first-place vote to its credit.  Rounding out the remaining teams, in order, are Carnegie Mellon University (29 pts.), Brandeis University (17 pts.), Case Western Reserve (12) and New York University.

After playing an exhibition contest at home against West Georgia on August 22 and at Presbyterian College on August 28, second-year Head Coach Sue Patberg and her team will open the regular season at home on September 2 against Savannah College of Arts and Design beginning at 7:30 p.m.

UAA COACHES' PRESEASON POLL

Aug. 18, 2006
EMORY WOMEN'S SOCCER ADDS JENE' BACLAWSKI TO COACHING STAFF

Emory University head women's soccer coach Sue Patberg has announced the appointment of Jene' Baclawski as assistant coach.

Baclawski brings a wealth of experience to the Emory program including 10 years of working with youth soccer teams, including the Girl's Academy Program, as well as numerous select teams for the Atlanta Fire United Soccer Association.  She served as a member of the coaching staff at Marist High School in 2001 and organized the Atlanta Fire Women's Division I team.  She has both the USSF "B" and National "Youth" coaching licenses. 

"Jene' is definitely a strong addition to the program," Patberg said.  "She is committed to excellence in athletics and academics which makes her a great fit at Emory. She is extremely organized and has her finger on the pulse of youth soccer throughout the state of Georgia."    

Baclawski enjoyed an impressive three-year career as a player at the University of Queens in Charlotte (1995-98) where she helped the Royals to three Carolinas-Virginia Athletic Conference (CVAC) regular season and tournament championships.  An All-America Scholar Athlete, Baclawski earned all-conference recognition and served as team captain while at Queens. She earned her bachelor's degree in philosophy and religious studies. 

"I am excited about the opportunity to join such a quality program and I look forward to helping the team reach our competitive goals," Baclawski said.  "Emory is a great place to be and I look forward to helping our student-athletes have positive experiences both on and off the field."

A certified personal trainer, Baclawski is an avid runner and cyclist.  She obtained her master's degree in women's studies from Georgia State in 2002 and is completing her dissertation on women and the demands of being a sports parent at the University of Georgia where she will graduate with her doctoral degree in sports studies in 2007.

The Emory women's soccer team will host West Georgia in an exhibition contest on Tuesday, Aug. 22, starting at 7:00 p.m.  The Eagles will wind up the exhibition portion of their schedule when it ventures to Presbyterian College on Monday, Aug. 28.