PORTLAND, Ore. - Head women's soccer coach Justin Bigelow has announced the first round of signees for the 2008 season. "I am very excited about these young ladies and what they will bring to the program. Each will add character and skill to the team, and I look forward to helping them succeed as they continue their education at Cascade."

Shannon Baker is an all-league player from Yuba City HS in Yuba City, CA. Shannon has played goalkeeper, defense and midfield and has 12 years experience in high school and club soccer. She was also all All-CIF Northern Section all four years of high school.

Coach Bigelow's comments: "I look forward to seeing Shannon work between the pipes, and utilizing her versatility this fall."

Katie Miller is a Stevensville, MT native and all-league player at Stevensville HS. Miller plays primarily as a forward or attacking midfielder. She was awarded the coach's award her senior year at Stevensville and was also named a River County athlete of the week.

Coach Bigelow's comments: "Katie's positive attitude and confident presence while creating scoring chances will be a valuable asset for us."

Teammates hailing from Las Vegas, NV and Bonanza HS signing with the T-Birds are Janelle Millender and Sierra Borelli. Millender was co-captain and MVP at Bonanza her senior season as a defender, and has 8 years of club and 4 years of HS experience. Borelli was the MVP at Bonanza as a junior, and led the team in scoring as a senior while playing multiple positions. Sierra also has extensive club experience, playing on several state championship teams.

Coach Bigelow's comments: "Janelle is a solid back line player who sees the game well. Sierra has terrific speed and plays with a feisty determination. These 2 players will be a big part of what we will be doing on the field."

Also from Las Vegas, NV and committing to Cascade is midfielder Marissa McGinn. McGinn led her team at Sierra Vista HS for three straight seasons in goals scored and was captain and offensive MVP as a senior. She also has many years of club experience with teams in the Vegas area.

Coach Bigelow's comments: "Marissa will cause opposing defenses a world of trouble with her speed and skill with the ball at her feet."

Speedy midfielder Leah Ballard will also don the green and white in 2008. Ballard was team captain at Clark HS in North Las Vegas, NV and can play on the wing or in the middle at the midfield spot. Ballard was also a 4 year all-state track and cross country athlete.

Coach Bigelow's comments: "Leah plays with a lot of composure and can run all day long. I look forward to watching her create opportunities in our midfield."

Local product Jessica Clawson has signed with Cascade as well. Jessica played at Portland Adventist High School and had been attending Portland State. She is a steady defender anxious to get back to playing soccer.