Feb. 18, 2002

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - Samford University Head Soccer Coach Todd Yelton announced the signing of three players to National Letters-of-Intent to play at Samford. Skye Dregalla (Larkspur, Colo.), Bridgit Martin (Caldwell, N.J.), and Lori McDonnell (Lakeland, Fla.) will join the Bulldogs for the 2002 season.

Dregalla played club soccer with the prestigious Colorado Rush. She has played in Olympic Development Programs for the Colorado State Pool and the Wisconsin State Team. She also plays high school for Douglas County High School where she has played varsity for her three years there. She was named 2nd-team All Continental League in 2000. Coach Yelton said, "Skye has high level experience and her composure on the ball will enable her to contend for playing time as freshman."

Martin set two school records at James Caldwell High School in Caldwell, N.J. by recording 19 assists last season and five assists in a single game. She scored 21 goals which made her the third leading goal scorer and second in overall points, in Caldwell High history. Last season, she was selected to the New Jersey State Girls Soccer Coaches Association State Team, First-Team All-State Group 2, First-Team All-Essex County, First team All- Essex County Coaches, and First-team All Conference. "Bridgit's size and athleticism on and off the ball will make her a powerful presence on the field." Said Yelton.

McDonnell played club soccer with the Blackwatch Stirling Soccer Club out of Tampa, Fla. She plays high school soccer for the Lakeland Christian Vikings where she serves as a team captain. She was named Most Valuable Player in 99, Most Valuable Defensive Player in 01, 1st team Bay Conference in 01 and 2nd team Bay Conference in 00. Coach Yelton says about McDonnell "Her athletic ability and competitiveness will allow her to contribute in a number of different positions right away." She will be reunited with former club and high school teammate Heidi Kearns who will be a sophomore at Samford next season.