Independence Signs U.S. National Team Midfielder Megan Rapinoe

The Independence announced the signing of Megan Rapinoe, U.S. Women’s National Team Midfielder and WPS All-Star.  Megan was selected by the Chicago Red Stars with the second overall pick in the 2009 WPS College Draft, and earned WPS All-Star honors in the 2009 season.  Her play on the U.S. Women’s National Team has been equally as impressive.  In 2006, her rookie season with the U.S. WNT, Megan appeared in four matches and scored two goals and in 2009 she started six matches, tallying two goals and one assist.  Megan scored the game-winning goal in the 2009 Algarve Cup semi-final win over Norway, and had the assist on the lone U.S. goal in the final. 

Megan will join other U.S. WNT teammates in Philadelphia, including Amy Rodriguez, Heather Mitts, and Lori Lindsey, as well as Jo Lohman who was recently called in to National Team camp.  In signing Megan, Coach Paul Riley stated, “We were looking for a natural wide player to compliment last year’s excellent midfield and Megan is one of the best in the world at taking players on.  She will create excitement for our fans and is a fantastic addition to our attack-driven team.  She brings with her energy, verve, and a tenacious will to win.”

In 2008, Megan’s senior year at the University of Portland, she earned honors as WCC Player of the Year and Soccer America’s First Team All-American.  She became only the 8th player in school history to reach 30 career goals and 25 assists.  In 2005, her Freshman year at Portland, Megan started all 25 games, scored 15 goals, and helped the team to an undefeated season and the NCAA Championship.  She was Soccer Times National Freshman of the Year, WCC Freshman of the Year, NSCAA First-Team All-American, All-WCC First Team, and named to the College Cup All-Tournament Team.

With the addition of Rapinoe, the Independence 2011 roster continues to take shape.  Stay tuned for more news on player transactions and roster additions as Coach Riley prepares for the 2011 WPS Draft in Baltimore, MD, on January 14th.

Note:  All team transactions must be approved by WPS before becoming official.

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