SRU exits from national tournament

The Slippery Rock University women's soccer team finished the banner season Nov. 18 with a 2-0 loss to #2 California University of Pa. in the third round of the NCAA tournament.

The Rock closed the 2011 season with an overall record of 16-5-2, which stands as the second highest season win total in school history. This was the 16th consecutive winning season with 10 or more wins for the Rock. This winning streak ranks as eighth best in Division II history.

A season to surely never forget, this was the team's first appearance in the third round of the NCAA tournament. The Rock had 11 consecutive shutouts during a long stretch in the middle of the season, ranking as fifth best in Division II history.  

In addition to the team's success, junior defender Emer Flatley was named to Daktronics Honorable Mention All-America honors on Tuesday. The All-America teams are nominated and voted on by the nation's sports information directors. Flatley was named to first team All-Region and first team All-PSAC earlier in the season.

Head coach Noreen Herlihy is extremely pleased with the team's efforts this year.

"I think the team played very admirably this season," Herlihy said. "During crunch time, these young ladies really dug deep and represented Slippery Rock very well. I couldn't be more proud of them."

The Green and White will say goodbye to senior goalie Lisa Rodgers and senior midfielder Alyssa Barrett. Rodgers will take on the role as graduate assistant coach for the fall 2012 season.

Coach Herlihy said the team will miss Rodgers' experience and positive attitude on and off the field.

"Coming in as a transfer this year, Lisa brought knowledge and skill to the team that will be missed greatly," Herlihy said. "She was a real positive influence on the young squad."

Herlihy commended Barrett on an incredible career at SRU.   

"Alyssa has been a fantastic player to have on the team for the last four years," Herlihy said. "Her athleticism and commitment to the program has been a motivator to her teammates."

Rodgers had a great senior year with the team, and is looking forward to sticking around next year as graduate assistant.

"The season turned out fantastic," Rodgers said. "It was really great to get to know the girls and be able to end my collegiate career by making it to the Sweet 16. I'm so happy to have the opportunity to help out with the girls next year. I will miss being on the team and bonding with them, but I'll still be around to help get the team to the next level."

Losing only two players, the 2012 season is looking promising for the Green and White.

"It was a very positive season for the young team," Herlihy said. "We'll have four strong senior leaders back on the team next year. This season, a lot of freshmen and sophomores gained tremendous experience, and I'm eager to see what we're capable of next year."