Ohio All-American Commits to AU Women’s Soccer

AURORA, Ill. March 2, 2005 - Maria Shipe, a high school senior from Bexley, Ohio, becomes the first ever high school All-American to commit to Aurora University women’s soccer program. With the addition of an All-American to the Spartan’s program, AU will strengthen a roster that returns every player from last season and includes eight NIIC All-Conference selections.

Shipe explained that her final decision came down to the school that she felt was the most complete fit for her. “I chose Aurora University because of the strength of the education program and the strength of the women’s soccer program. I got along very well with the team on my visit and everyone I met on campus was welcoming and friendly. I loved the campus and the neighborhood. It reminded me of Bexley.”

A four-year varsity starter at Bexley High, Shipe was a highly regarded soccer recruit across all three NCAA divisions and had visits with and offers from schools throughout the Midwest and East Coast. The NSCAA (National Soccer Coaches Association) selected Shipe as an All-American, and had her ranked among the top 33 in the United States at her position.

“We are very fortunate to be able to matriculate such a strong athlete as Maria Shipe,” Aurora’s Head Coach Kanute Drugan said. “Maria’s skill level, work ethic, passion, and intensity are the attributes college coaches look for in a talented college prospect.”

With 50 career goals scored at Bexley High, Shipe garnered an impressive array of personal awards following her senior season. In addition to her All-American selection, she earned First Team All-State in Ohio, First Team All-Central District and First Team All Mid State League. She also was selected Ohio Central District Player of the Year and Mid State League Player of the Year.

Bexley High varsity girls’ soccer coach Scott Dempsey described Shipe as being the total package. “She has the athletic ability, academic ability and personality to succeed at the collegiate level. Maria has been a starter and an impact player from the first day of her freshman year and she should make an equally strong impact at Aurora University.”

Coach Dempsey led his varsity team to three consecutive state semi-final finishes during Shipe’s first three years and his team lost in the district finals to eventual state champions Bay Village this year. “Maria was a major contributor to our success. It is her physical skills that make you take notice, but her amazing work habits, her intense desire to succeed, and her leadership ability are also extremely impressive.”

The Spartans are hopeful that Shipe’s impact will help them win their seventh NIIC conference championship in the past 10 seasons and earn their third NCAA National Championship tournament bid in the past five years.

AU opens the 2005 season with three road contests, the first coming on Thursday, September 1 at Blackburn College. The Spartans home opener is on Friday, September 16, when they host the Blue Jays of Elmhurst College. Kick off is set for 4:00 p.m. on AU Field.

-END-