Tues., April 8, 2008

   FORT WAYNE, Ind. -- Lorraine Morales-Soto, a member of the Puerto Rico under-19 National Team, has committed to continue her volleyball and education at the University of Saint Francis.

   Lady Cougars’ Head Coach Hector Kiely is obviously pleased that Lorraine has selected the USF program.

   “Lorraine will make an immediate impact to our program both on and off the court,” Kiely says. “On the court, her volleyball resume is tremendous as she brings extensive international playing experience. I look forward to mentoring her and watching her grow in the collegiate game. Her dream is to represent Puerto Rico on the National Team and it is my goal to help her achieve that dream.”

  “Off the court, Lorraine will provide the rest of the team the opportunity to learn more about the Puerto Rican culture, as we help her adjust to living and studying in the states. Even on her recent visit with the team, I was able to see two cultures bridge gaps and the excitement it brings. Through this new teammate, our team will learn life lessons that we will never forget.”

   Lorraine is a senior at Colegio Adianez High School where she was the team captain and MVP helping her team to the El Nuevo Dia Cup 2007 championship. In November 2007, Lorraine not only was honored by Caguas Mayor William Miranda as Athlete of the Year, but also lead team Puerto Rico to the Scholar Centro American and Caribbean Games silver medal as captain. Lorraine has two brothers and is the daughter of Awilda Soto and Ferdinand Morales.

 -- GO USF --