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NWSL Washington Spirit

Washington Spirit Selects Five Players in NWSL Draft

January 15, 2016 - National Women's Soccer League (NWSL)
Washington Spirit News Release


BOYDS, MD - The Washington Spirit completed the 2016 National Women's Soccer League College Draft by selecting forwards Cheyna Williams (FSU) and Cali Farquharson (ASU), midfielder Alli Murphy (Texas Tech), goalkeeper Madalyn Schiffel (University of San Francisco), and defender Kara Wilson (Duke). All five draft selections will be invited to join the Spirit in March for preseason.

"We could not be more pleased with our draft today," said general manager and head coach Jim Gabarra. "We can't wait for preseason."

The Spirit selected forward Cheyna Williams from Florida State University with the 7th overall pick. Williams started every game for the Noles in 2015 as they reached their 5th consecutive College Cup. She led the team with 10 goals on the season.

With the no. 12 pick, the Spirit selected forward Cali Farquharson from Arizona State University. Farquharson is the second all-time leading scorer for the Sun Devils with 44 goals. She led her team in goals and points all four years of her ASU career.

The Spirit concluded the second round by picking midfielder Alli Murphy from Texas Tech University. Murphy ranks third all time in assists for Texas Tech with 25. She scored 13 goals during her college career.

With the 34th overall pick, the Spirit drafted goalkeeper Madalyn Schiffel from the University of San Francisco. Schiffel holds single-season school records in wins (13), shutouts (9), and minutes in goal (1,865). She started all 20 matches her senior year.

With the club's final pick of the draft, the Spirit chose defender Kara Wilson from Duke University with the No. 37 overall selection. Wilson was tri-captain of the team which went to the College Cup finals. The Potomac, Md native has been a member of the Washington Spirit Reserves for three seasons dating back to 2013, including the 2015 USL W-League winning squad.

Next, the Washington Spirit will host open tryouts on Friday, January 22 at the Maryland SoccerPlex. Go to the website for more information and registration: http://washingtonspirit.com/pro/spirit-to-hold-open-tryout-for-pro-and-reserves-teams/

Washington Spirit 2016 season tickets are available now by calling 301-337-8579.

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