2005 PENN STATE ROSTER
NO.
NAME
19
Christopher Ascherl
23
Ryan Badaracco
27
Yan Carvalho*
8
Jeff Chambers**
6
Richard Costanzo*
20
Austin Cottrell
11
Brian Devlin***
15
David Gray**
25
Michael Janov
14
Dylan Keener
28
Lance Kichler
3
Andy Machi
4
Geordie MacNeill*
16
Patrick Martin
9
Barkley Miller
18
Simon Omekanda**
12
Mergen Orazov
7
Milan Popovic
5
Stephen Reihner*
2
Grady Renfrow*
21
Dan Shaffer*
1
Conrad Taylor*
29
Michael Tilatti
22
John Tilghman
13
Markku Viitanen**
10
David Walters***
17
Jason Yeisley
* Letters Earned
POS.
F/MF
D
MF
MF
F/MF
F/MF
MF
D
MF
MF
GK
D
D
D
D
F
F
F
D
D
MF
GK
GK
MF
D
MF
F
HT.
6-0
5-10
6-2
5-7
5-9
5-6
5-7
6-1
5-10
5-11
6-1
5-11
6-2
6-0
6-0
5-8
6-0
5-10
5-10
5-10
5-8
5-8
6-1
5-9
6-0
5-9
6-1
WT.
170
170
172
155
167
145
150
165
169
165
180
175
180
175
177
178
165
145
171
166
160
167
175
150
174
165
185
YR./ELG.
Fr./Fr.
So./Fr.
So./So.
Jr./Jr.
So./So.
Jr./So.
Sr./Sr.
Jr./Jr.
Fr./Fr.
Fr./Fr.
Fr./Fr.
Fr./Fr.
So./So.
Fr./Fr.
Fr./Fr.
Jr./Jr.
Fr./Fr.
Fr./Fr.
So./So.
Jr./So.
So./So.
So./So.
Fr./Fr.
Fr./Fr.
Jr./Jr.
Sr./Sr.
Fr./Fr.
HOMETOWN/HIGH SCHOOL
Bruehl, Germany/Heidelberg
Wexford, Pa./Pine-Richland
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil/The American School
Christiana, Pa./Octorara
Pittsburgh, Pa./Thomas Jefferson
Ephrata, Pa./Radnor
Philadelphia, Pa./Penn Charter
Lemont, Pa./State College
Vienna, Austria/American International School
Myerstown, Pa./Eastern Lebanon County
Roswell, Ga./Woodward Academy
Upper St. Clair, Pa./Upper St. Clair
Richmond Hill, Ont., Canada/Holy Trinity
State College, Pa./State College
New Freedom, Pa./Susquehannock
Rochester Hills, Mich./Rochester Adams
Ashgabat, Turkmenistan/Turgut Ozal
Belgrade, Serbia/IV Beogradska Gimnazija
Washington, Pa./The Linsley School
Washington, D.C./Gonzaga College
Lancaster, Pa./Manheim Township
Colorado Springs, Colo./Liberty
Thornhill, Ont., Canada/St. Michael’s College
Mandeville, La./Mandeville
Pirkkala, Finland/High School of Sampo
Hunlock Creek, Pa./Lake Lehman
Allentown, Pa./Salisbury
HEAD COACH: Barry Gorman (18th Year, Stranmillis College)
ASSISTANT COACH: Marlon LeBlanc (Fifth Year, Penn State)
ASSISTANT COACH: Scott Black (Fifth Year, Wisconsin at Green Bay)
PRONUNCIATION GUIDE
Christopher Ascherl . . . . . . . . . . . .Ah-SHARE-Uhl
Ryan Badaracco . . . . . . . . . . . . .Bad-ar-RACK-oh
Yan Carvalho . . . . . . . . . . . . .YAHN Car-VAHL-Oh
Austin Cottrell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .KAH-Trell
Michael Janov . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .JAN-Ov
Lance Kichler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .KICK-Lur
Andy Machi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Mah-KEE
Geordie MacNeill . . . . . . . .Joor-DEE Mack-NEEL
Simon Omekanda .See-MOAN Oh-meh-KAHN-Da
Mergen Orazov . . . . . . . .Meer-GEHN Or-Ah-ZOV
Milan Popovic . . . . . . . . .MEE-Lahn Pop-OH-Vick
Stephen Reihner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Rye-NUR
Grady Renfrow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .REN-Fro
Dan Shaffer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Shay-FUR
Michael Tilatti . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Til-LAH-Tee
John Tilghman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .TILL-MEHN
Markku Viitanen . . . . . . . . .MARR-Ku VEE-Ten-En
Jason Yeisley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .YIZE-Lee
PLAYERS BY CLASS
(ELIGIBILITY)
True Freshmen (12): Christopher Ascherl, Michael
Janov, Dylan Keener, Lance Kichler, Andy Machi,
Patrick Martin, Barkley Miller, Mergen Orazov, Milan
Popovic, Michael Tilatti, John Tilghman, Jason
Yeisley.
Redshirt Freshman (1): Ryan Badaracco.
Sophomores (8): Yan Carvalho, Richard Costanzo,
Austin Cottrell, Geordie MacNeill, Stephen Reihner,
Grady Renfrow, Dan Shaffer, Conrad Taylor.
Juniors (4): Jeff Chambers, David Gray, Simon
Omekanda, Markku Viitanen.
Seniors (2): Brian Devlin, David Walters.
PENN
STATE
SOCCER
PENN STATE
NUMERICAL ROSTER
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
25
27
28
29
Conrad Taylor
Grady Renfrow
Andy Machi
Geordie MacNeill
Stephen Reihner
Richard Costanzo
Milan Popovic
Jeff Chambers
Barkley Miller
David Walters
Brian Devlin
Mergen Orazov
Markku Viitanen
Dylan Keener
David Gray
Patrick Martin
Jason Yeisley
Simon Omekanda
Christopher Ascherl
Austin Cottrell
Dan Shaffer
John Tilghman
Ryan Badaracco
Michael Janov
Yan Carvalho
Lance Kichler
Michael Tilatti
GK
D
D
D
D
F/MF
F
MF
D
MF
MF
F
D
MF
D
D
F
F
F/MF
F/MF
MF
MF
D
MF
MF
GK
GK
15
SEASON OUTLOOK
PENN
STATE
SOCCER
As the Penn State men’s soccer team embarks on its 95th year of varsity competition, head coach Barry Gorman has the squad poised for a
serious run at another Big Ten title and NCAA Tournament appearance.
Thirteen lettermen return, including seven starters from a team that
went 10-4-8 last season while playing one of the toughest schedules in
the country.
“I think this team is good enough to ch a l l e n ge for a Big Ten
Championship and to make a run in the NCAA Tournament,” said
Gorman, who is Penn State’s all-time winningest coach with a 228-117-29
mark in his 17 years as the Head Coach at PSU. “I think you have to look
at this team and say, ‘We have players with the talent and work ethic to
win.’ Brian Devlin, David Walters, Conrad Taylor and Simon Omekanda
are potential game winners. They have all been successful at club and
representative levels. I believe the pieces of the puzzle are in place for a
successful year. Collectively, we can achieve great things this year.”
All-America candidates David Walters and Brian Devlin are the only
seniors on a squad that returns five other quality starters including
Omekanda, goalkeeper Tay l o r, defenders Stephen Re i h n e r, Markku
Viitanen and local product David Gray.
SENIORS
Walters and Devlin, as the two remaining starters from the 2002 Big
Ten Championship team, will strive vigorously to lead their teammates to
another victor’s celebration. Gorman believes these two talented midfielders have what it takes to lead the Nittany Lions back to the coveted title.
Walters was a first-team all-Big Ten midfielder, an all-Mid Atlantic
Region first team player, and an NSCAA Scholar all-America. He will
serve as a team co-captain for the third consecutive year. Walters is considered by knowable coaches to be as good as any midfielder in the country at orchestrating the offense. This year Coach Gorman would like the
talented Pennsylvania native to put more points on the board.
“We are obviously expecting David to be big time this year,” Gorman
said. “If he can either put more goals in the net or increase his assist numbers in leading us to a successful year, he will be a serious candidate for
an all-America nomination. He has that much potential.”
Devlin has played alongside Walters for the past three seasons. They
complement each other very well, and as a previous all-Big Ten first team
selection, Devlin processes the ability and savvy to form a tremendous
senior midfield partnership with Walters.
“Brian Devlin is obviously a very good player,” Gorman added. “He and
David have played together long enough to be capable of conducting the
show. For us to be successful, Brian and David must establish themselves
as the premier midfielders in the country. Devlin and Walters must contribute to our offensive output if we are going to be a serious contender.
With the type of offense we are going to have, Brian Devlin could put
some serious numbers on the scoreboard.”
NEWCOMERS
Whereas this year’s incoming class doesn’t have the media hype that
some of Gorman’s more recent recruiting classes, don’t be fooled into
thinking that the talent isn’t there. The Nittany Lions have a class of 13
newcomers, which includes six Pennsylvanians and five international student-athletes.
“To be quite honest, quite a few of these newcomers really excite me in
terms of their potential.” Gorman said. “We have a number of very good
athletes in this group. I think several of them are definitely going to blossom and surprise quite a few people sooner rather than later.”
Returning seven starters, Gorman and his staff were looking to add
depth at each position. Logically some of these new faces will have a
chance to log significant minutes right from the first kick-off.
“The way I see it, we are going to have a very balanced squad with the
possibly of two players challenging for each position,” Gorman said.
FORWARDS
Gorman is optimistic that several players who have the potential to be
collegiate goal scorers will challenge for starting front line positions.
Simon Omekanda is the leading goal scoring forward returning for the
Lions. Omekanda with nine career goals is expected to be a major threat
this year. Transfer Milan Popovic along with freshmen Jason Yeisley,
Mergen Orazov and Dylan Keener will challenge for positions.
“I know we have quite a few players who are capable of being dangerous scoring threats at this level,” Gorman said. “That’s going to make it
interesting in terms of who plays and who doesn’t. With the selection possibilities available to me, I may have the opportunity to rotate the starting
front line.”
MIDFIELDERS
While Devlin and Walters are the only two seniors on a young but experienced team, both are expected to galvanize a midfield of talented teammates. Junior Jeff Chambers should play a more prominent role this season. Chambers saw action in 19 games as a freshman and then played in
19 of the 22 games as a sophomore. Look for Penn State’s No. 8 to be
more of a force as he has matured into a dependable and capable midfielder.
16
‰ Seniors David Walters (left) and Brian Devlin (right)are three-year
starters returning for another run at the NCAA Tournament.
Also figuring into the mix will be sophomore Dan Shaffer and transfer
Austin Cottrell along with freshmen Barkley Miller, Christopher Ascherl
SEASON OUTLOOK
PENN
STATE
and John Tilghman.
“On paper, the midfield looks very strong,” Gorman said. “Miller and
Ascherl are potential big game players who will give us offensive options
coming out of midfield. Ascherl, an American citizen from Germany, can
play as an attacking midfielder or as a fast raiding forward. Cottrell can
play as a wide midfielder, while Shaffer saw time in the wide midfield role
last year. There will be a lot of people vying for positions in the midfield.”
DEFENDERS
SOCCER
The defense is another area where Gorman and his coaching staff
have the option of shuffling players around. Junior Markku Viitanen has
been a steadying force for the past two seasons, playing in 39 of Penn
State’s 42 games.
David Gray played in 16 games as a freshman and then came on strong
at the end of last season while starting in nine of the last 11 matches.
Geordie MacNeill and Stephen Reihner gained valuable experience as
freshmen and both look as if they will figure in the starting defensive rotation heading into 2005.
Back after a one-year battle with leukemia, Grady Renfrow will make
his much anticipated return to the pitch for the Nittany Lions. Renfrow, who
will be a sophomore, played in 12 games, starting five during his freshman
campaign in 2003.
State College High School player Patrick Martin, Upper St. Clair standout Andy Machi and Austrian Michael Janov are other possibilities on
defense.
“The defensive possibilities give us options of moving some guys
around but we won’t play musical positions,” Gorman said. “Starting
defenders are usually experienced, strong, mature and steady individuals
capable of withstanding the rigors of a competitive division one collegiate
season. As a staff we feel that we have enough reliable talented defenders at our deposal that they will be the bedrock on which to build a solid
team.”
‰ Penn State packed the house against
No. 6 Indiana last year on
“Jam the Jeff” night at Jeffrey Field.
GOALKEEPERS
Conrad Taylor is back to start between the posts after producing one of
the best freshman campaigns in school history.
Taylor walked off with honors on the Top Drawer Soccer, College
Soccer News, Soccer America, and Big Ten All-Freshman teams. He was
also a five-time Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week.
Taylor played every minute in goal, posting a 10-4-8 record with an
impressive 1.02 goals against average and eight shutouts.
In 2005, two new goaltenders will challenge Taylor for the starting spot.
Lance Kichler and Michael Tilatti will forge a fierce battle in preseason
practices. Both have played on championship teams in high school.
“I feel Conrad is very good and has proven himself at our level,” Gorman
said. “You can’t ask much more of a freshman student-athlete who earns a
3.94 grade point average and wins everything possible for a goalkeeper and
yet remains so humble. Kichler and Tilatti are obviously inexperienced at the
collegiate level, but both have a lot of v a l u able playing experience at the
club level. Nonetheless, as in any squad situation, you have to prepare all
your ke e p e rs for all eventualities. So we’ll be wo rking very hard with Lance
and Michael during preseason to get them ready for collegiate action.”
SCHEDULE
The Penn State Nike Classic highlights another strong schedule for
Gorman’s squad. Set for September 16-18, the Classic features the
Nittany Lions hosting 2002 NCAA Champions UCLA and Cal State
Fullerton. On that same weekend the Penn State Athletic family will welcome back the 1954-55 men’s soccer national championship teams for
their 50th reunion.
The 2005 schedule will pit the Nittany Lions against such opponents as
New Mexico, Virginia Tech and Maryland. Traditional foes Indiana, Akron,
Northwestern, Wisconsin, Ohio State, Michigan State, Michigan and
Hartwick make 2005 another challenging year as the Lions seek to better
the kind of season it had a year ago.
‰ Sophomore Conrad Taylor returns at goalkeeper after playing
every minute and logging a 1.02 goals against average with 8
On the season ahead Gorman reflects, “There are a lot of experienced
returning players on this 2005 team. As a staff, it is our job to blend the
incoming talent with our returnees and create a winning combination. I
certainly expect to have a settled lineup in place by the time the season
starts in earnest on September 2nd. I will use the exhibition game against
Towson on August 27th to give players an opportunity to play themselves
on or off the starting lineup. Most certainly, I truly expect, with the wealth
of talent available in this year’s squad, an abundance of line-up permutations.”
17
CO-CAPTAIN BRIAN DEVLIN
PENN
STATE
two shots on goal and had an assist on only goal of game to help Nittany
Lions defeat Northwestern in Big Ten Championships (11/14).
11
SOCCER
2002 (Freshman Year): Devlin started all 23 games in which he saw
action; assisted on Kenji Treschuk’s game-winner in 1-0 victory at
Michigan (9/22); had an assist in 3-1 win over Towson (9/29); tallied first
career goal at Seton Hall (10/9).
Brian
Devlin
High School: Was a member of the U.S. National U-16 team in 1999 and
the U-18 squad in 2001; played in the ODP Region I team from 1997-02;
was a Parade Magazine High School All-America selection in 2001-02; a
Pennsylvania High School all-State selection 1999-01; an Inter AC allConference selection from 1998-01, while playing for William Penn
Charter head coach Mark Franek.
5-7 ‰ 150 ‰ Sr./Sr. ‰ Midfielder
Penn Charter H.S. ‰ Philadelphia, Pa.
CAREER STATS
OVERALL
Year
GP
GS
G
A
PTS
SH
2002
23
23
1
2003
20
20
4
2
4
15
6
14
2004
22
22
23
3
5
11
Career
65
65
32
8
13
29
70
Penn State Personality: Brian Christopher Devlin was born May 24,
1983, in Philadelphia, Pa.; son of James and Mary Ann Devlin; he is
majoring in Recreation and Parks Management.
2004 (Junior Year): A reliable and gritty midfielder throughout his career,
Devlin was named a team co-captain along with David Walters for the
2005 season; a 2004 all-Big Ten second team midfielder; started all 22
games in 2004; needs just one point to reach 30 for his career; was fourth
on the team in scoring with 11 points (3G, 5A); scored first goal of year
against then-No. 6 North Carolina (9/3); named to the Ohio State Classic
all-Tournament team; named to Tulsa Golden Hurricane Classic allTournament team; tallied team’s only goal against eventual national
champion Indiana (10/1); scored game-winning goal against Bucknell
(10/20); assisted on game-winning goal at Lehigh (11/7).
2003 (Sophomore Year): Devlin was named to the all-Big Ten first team
and the all-Mid Atlantic Region third team for an outstanding sophomore
season; recorded first assist of season to help Penn State beat Bradley
(9/5); had two assists, including one on the game-winner, in a victory over
Tulsa (9/7); notched first goal of season, a game-winner, in 2-1 win over
Boston College; Devlin recorded first career two-goal game and reached
a career high in points in win over Northwestern (10/2); scored game’s
only goal to help Penn State beat in-state rival Lehigh (10/29); notched
OFF THE PITCH WITH BRIAN DEVLIN
Why did you choose PSU
Favorite Quote
18
To play soccer and go to the occasional class
“It’s not the size of the dog in the fight,
but it’s the size of the fight in the dog.”
Favorite non-soccer team
Philadelphia Eagles
Favorite actor
Kevin Spacey
Favorite actress
Micha Barton
Favorite movie
The Matrix
Last CD you bought
The $2 Hip-Hop cd off some guy on College Ave.
Favorite musical artist
The Roots
Favorite ice cream flavor
Mint Chocolate Chip
Best book you have read
How to Play Soccer
Favorite TV shows
The Simpsons
Favorite meal
Cheesesteaks
Four people I would invite to dinner
Pele, Brooke Burke, Babe, Bob Marley
Best event I have attended as a spectator
1994 World Cup
Best part of my game
Vision
Which star would be an ideal teammate
Paul Scholes
Most memorable soccer moment
Playing for my country
Most embarrassing soccer moment Getting my head split open against North Carolina
Favorite soccer team
Arsenal
Personal Goals
Score at least 10 goals
Have at least 10 assists
Be First Team all-Big Ten
‰ Senior Brian Devlin will wear an arm band this year signifying his
captaincy. Devlin was a 2004 all-Big Ten second team midfielder.
CO-CAPTAIN DAVID WALTERS
ve rsus Hart w i ck (9/13); scored game-winning goal in win over Northwestern (10/2);
recorded an assist in loss ve rsus Indiana in Big Ten Championship mat ch (11/16).
2002 (Freshman Year): Started all 24 games as a true freshman and was fourth
on the team with 9 points; scored first career goal, a game-winner, versus
Villanova (9/13); tallied first collegiate assist at Wisconsin (10/6); assisted on
game-winner in 1-0 victory at No. 24 Lehigh (11/5); had an assist in Penn State’s
Big Ten Tournament first-round victory over Wisconsin at Jeffrey Field (11/14);
had an assist in win over Michigan to help Nittany Lions capture second Big Ten
Title (11/17); assisted on game-winner versus North Carolina in second round of
NCAA Tournament (11/27); scored a goal in NCAA Quarterfinal game at UCLA
(12/7).
10
David
Walters
5-9 ‰ 165 ‰ Sr./Sr. ‰ Midfielder
Lake Lehman H.S. ‰ Hunlock Creek, Pa.
CAREER STATS
OVERALL
Year
GP
GS
G
A
PTS
SH
2002
24
24
2
5
9
20
2003
20
18
1
3
5
21
2004
22
22
1
4
6
24
Career
66
64
4
12
20
65
PENN
STATE
SOCCER
High School: Walters came to Penn State with high expectations after being
named the National Player of the Year runner-up in 2001; while starring for Mark
Stroney at Lake Lehman High School, he garnered National Soccer Coaches
Association of America/adidas High School All-America honors in 2000 and 2001;
NSCAA/adidas High School all-East team honors from 1999-2001; was also a
Powerade/McDonald’s High School All-America team nominee while gaining allstate honors for three consecutive seasons (1999-2001).
Penn State Personality: David Reese Walters was born April 25, 1984, in
Kingston, Pa.; son of Hank and Linda Walters; David is majoring in Recreation
and Park Management with a minor in Kinesiology.
2004 (Junior Year): Walters, a team co-captain in 2004, continued his development as one of collegiate soccer’s top midfielders; has played in all 66 games
Penn State has played during his career; will serve as a team co-captain for the
third straight year in 2005; was one of four Nittany Lions to start, and play, in all
22 games, on his way to his first all-Big Ten First Team selection as a midfielder;
was honored as an NSCAA all-Mid-Atlantic Region First Team Midfielder, as well
as an NSCAA/adidas Scholar all-America with a 3.32 GPA in Recreation and
Park Management; named the MVP at both the Penn State Nike Classic, and the
Golden Hurricane Classic in Tulsa, Okla.; was also named to the all-tournament
teams at the Ohio State Classic, and the University of Maryland Tournament;
named to the College Soccer News National Team of the Week after his efforts in
helping the Nittany Lions win the Penn State Nike Classic; assisted on goals
against Virginia Tech (9/18) and Akron (9/19) in wins at the Penn State Nike
Classic; assisted on game-winning goal against then-No. 25 Tulsa (9/24); scored
only goal of season from 35-yards out in win at then-No. 21 Maryland (10/14);
assisted on goal in NCAA second round match against Tulsa (11/23).
2003 (Sophomore Ye a r ): An Academic all-Big Ten selection, Wa l t e rs played in all
20 games, starting 18 for the Nittany Lions; recorded first point of season with an
assist on game-winning goal over Tulsa (9/7); had an assist on game-winning goal
OFF THE PITCH WITH DAVID WALTERS
Why did you choose PSU
I chose Penn State to win a National Championship
Favorite Quote
“You must be the change you wish to see in the world.”- Ghandi
Favorite non-soccer team
Philadelphia 76ers
Favorite actor
Jim Carrey
Favorite actress
Penelope Cruz
Favorite movie
8 Mile
Last CD you bought
Jimi Hendrix- Are You Experienced
Favorite musical artist
Dispatch
Favorite ice cream flavor
Cookies and Cream
Best book you have read
The Catcher in the Rye
Favorite TV shows
I don’t have a TV
Favorite meal
Chinese- General Tso
Best event attended
Dave Matthews Band at Camden, NJ
Best part of your game
Relaxed/Chill
Which star would be an ideal teammate
Zidane
Most memorable soccer moment
Winning the Big Ten Championship (2002)
Most embarrassing soccer moment
Losing 7-1 to UCLA (2002)
Favorite soccer team
Arsenal
Your best soccer friend
Brian Devlin
Your closest friend
Clifford III
PSU Aquaintances
Nathan Walters (brother)
Personal Goals
To win the Big Ten regular season
Win every Big Ten game we play during regular season
To get a bye and have home field advantage in the NCAA Playoffs
Have several good wins and no bad losses
Make it to the final four
Have at least one point in every game this season
19
‰ David Walters returns to anchor the Penn State offense this season. Walters was an all-Big Ten First Team midfielder last season.
MEET THE NITTANY LIONS
PENN
STATE
SOCCER
19
23
Christopher
Ryan
Ascherl
6-0 ‰ 170 ‰ Fr./Fr. ‰ Forward/Midfielder
Heidelberg H.S. ‰ Bruehl, Germany
High School: While playing for coach Don Cameron at Heidelberg High
School, Ascherl was an all-European player 2002-2004; played for ODP
Europe in 2001 and 2002; was team captain while playing for Stefan
Knapp on the FV Bruhl club team.
Penn State Personality: Christopher J. Ascherl was born June 17,
1986, in Bruehl, Germany.; son of Oscar and Marian Ascherl; plans to
major in Broadcast Communications.
OFF THE PITCH WITH CHRISTOPHER ASCHERL
Why did you come to PSU
Soccer and academics
Favorite Quote
“An extraordinary guy can never have an ordinary day.”
Favorite other sport
Galiec Football
Favorite non-soccer team
Co. Rosscommon Galiec Footbal Team
Favorite actor
Hugh Grant
Favorite actress
Jennifer Aniston
Favorite movie
Snatch
Last CD you bought
Oasis- Don’t Believe the Truth
Favorite musical artist
Oasis
Favorite ice cream flavor
Stracitella
Best book you have read
“Keane”
Favorite TV shows
Soccer AM, Match of the Day
Favorite meal
Spagehtti Frutti di Mare
Best event attended
First Bayern Munich game
Best part of your game
My desire to win
Which star would be an ideal teammate
Roy Keane
Most memorable soccer moment
Winning first German League Title
Most embarrassing soccer moment
Missing a penalty in a Cup Final
Favorite soccer team
Bayern Munich
Your best soccer friend
Matthias Pabst
Your closest friend
Philip Soriano
Personal Goals
Earn a starting position
Work very hard
Win a championship
Build a strong side
20
‰ Former Penn State players Derek Potteiger (left) and Chad Severs
(right) pose for a photo with coach Gorman after a Harrisburg City
Badaracco
5-10 ‰ 170 ‰ So./Fr. ‰ Defender
Pine-Richland H.S. ‰ Wexford, Pa.
2004 (Freshman Year): Redshirted.
High School: Was 2002 and 2003 all-WPIAL District 7; 2003 all-section Pittsburgh Tribune-Review Elite 11; Pittsburgh Post Gazette North
Top 11 in 2003; was the Pine-Richland High School team captain and
team MVP during senior season; played for the Beadling Soccer Club,
five-time Pennsylvania West State Champions; Badaracco was also a
three-year member of the Pennsylvania West ODP team.
Penn State Personality: Ryan Thomas Badaracco was born Dec. 11,
1985 in Wexford, Pa.; son of Ken and Aurora Badaracco; he is enrolled
in the Smeal College of Business.
OFF THE PITCH WITH RYAN BADARACCO
Why did you come to PSU
Academic and athletic opportunities
Favorite Quote
“The harder I work, the luckier I seem to get.”
Favorite other sport
Football
Favorite non-soccer team
Philadelphia Eagles
Favorite actor
Ed Norton
Favorite actress
Tara Reid
Favorite movie
Training Day
Last CD you bought
Green Day
Favorite musical artist
Nirvana
Favorite ice cream flavor
Chocolate
Best book you have read
Catcher in the Rye
Favorite TV shows
Sportscenter
Favorite meal
Pasta
Who would you invite to dinner
My family
Best event attended
Brazilian soccer matches
Best part of your game
Mental
Which star would be an ideal teammate
Thierry Henry
Most memorable soccer moment
Winning State Championships
Favorite soccer team
DC United
Your best soccer friend
PSU Soccer
Personal Goals
Get stronger and faster in the offseason
Hard work in the weight room and during conditioning
Work my way into playing for the ‘05 season
Reaching first goal and having more of an impact during practices
MEET THE NITTANY LIONS
27
8
Yan
Jeff
Carvalho
PENN
STATE
SOCCER
Chambers
6-2 ‰ 172 ‰ So./So. ‰ Midfielder
The American School ‰ Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
5-7 ‰ 155 ‰ Jr/Jr. ‰ Midfielder
Octorara H.S. ‰ Christiana, Pa.
CAREER STATS
CAREER STATS
OVERALL
OVERALL
Year
GP
GS
G
A
PTS
SH
Year
GP
GS
G
A
PTS
SH
2004
7
0
2
0
4
3
2003
19
12
0
2
2
15
Career
7
0
2
0
4
3
2004
19
5
1
1
3
10
Career
38
17
1
3
5
25
2004 (Freshman Year): Carvalho saw more action as his freshman
season wore on, playing in seven games; played first game of his
career against then-No. 25 Tulsa (9/24); Scored first goal against then
No. 15-SMU (9/26) at Tulsa Golden Hurricane Classic; tallied second
goal of season in 3-0 win over Cornell (10/27).
High School: Carvalho played under the direction of Dan Brower at
the American School in Rio de Janeiro, where he was named the
league MVP twice.
Penn State Personality: Yan Carvalho was born Jan. 30, 1986, in Rio
de Janeiro, Brazil; son of Amador and Bianca Carvalho; he is enrolled
in the Division of Undergraduate Studies with plans to enroll in
Business.
OFF THE PITCH WITH YAN CARVALHO
Why did you come to PSU Strong academics together with an excellent athletic program
Favorite other sport
Tennis
Favorite actor
Al Pacino
Favorite actress
Angelina Jolie
Favorite movie
The Godfather
Last CD you bought
The College Dropout
Favorite musical artist
U2
Favorite ice cream flavor
Chocolate
Best book you have read
The DaVinci Code
Favorite TV shows
The O.C.
Favorite meal
French Fries
Best event attended
Brasil X Argentina Qualifier game
Best part of your
game
Ability
Most memorable soccer moment
Scored hat trick against
Vasco
Most embarrassing
soccer moment
Hit my head on the post
Favorite soccer team
Flamengo
Personal Goals
Become a starter
2004 (Sophomore Year): Chambers played in 19 of Penn State’s 22 games
during his sophomore season; scored first career goal, a game-winner, in
thrilling double overtime victory versus Mich i gan State (10/24); assisted on
one goal in 3-0 win over Cornell (10/27).
2003 (Freshman Year): Played in 19 games and started 12 during freshman
campaign; started first career game versus No. 1 UCLA (8/29) and recorded one shot on goal; tallied first career assist in Penn Stat e ’s 2-0 victory over
St. Bonaventure (9/21); notched an assist on Chad Severs’ game-winner to
help Penn State defe at Mich i gan State in its Big Ten Championship firstround mat ch (11/13).
High Sch o o l: A midfielder from Christiana, Pa., Chambers was a member
of the United States U-18 National Team; was selected to Adidas ESP in
2001 and 2002, while being named to the ESP All Star team in 2001; was a
two-time NSCAA High School All-America for Octora ra H.S.; was also a twotime NSCAA/Adidas Olympic Development Program Youth All-America in
2000 and 2001; has represented his country with the national and regional
team overseas in Bolivia, Mexico, France, Italy and Brazil.
Penn State Personality: Je ff Chambers was born March 22, 1985, in
Christiana, Pa.; son of Bill and Donna Chambers; he is majoring in Business.
OFF THE PITCH
WITH JEFF CHAMBERS
Favorite movie
Godfather
Last CD you bought
Mozart’s Greatest Symphonies
Favorite musical artist
Jimi Hendrix
Favorite ice cream flavor Chocolate
Chip Cookie Dough
Best book you have read Standing
in Water, Waving a Stick
Favorite TV shows
Surreal Life, Lost
Who would you invite to
dinner
Flava Flav,
Verne Troyer, Tallest Man,
John Gierach
Best event attended
Lazio vs. Juventus
Best part of your game
Vision
Which star would be an
ideal teammate
Claude Makele
Personal Goals
Start 95% of games
21
MEET THE NITTANY LIONS
PENN
STATE
SOCCER
6
20
Richard
Austin
Costanzo
5-9 ‰ 167 ‰ So./So. ‰ Forward/Midfielder
Thomas Jefferson H.S. ‰ Pittsburgh, Pa.
CAREER STATS
OVERALL
Year
GP
GS
G
A
PTS
SH
2004
21
19
4
7
15
29
Career
21
19
4
7
15
29
2004 (Freshman Year): Costanzo was named the Big Ten Freshman of the
Year after an outstanding collegiate debut; named to Top Drawer Soccer and
College Soccer News all-Freshman second team; named a Soccer America
Freshman All-America; led Nittany Lions in assists with seven; recorded first
career point with an assist against then-No. 6 North Carolina (9/3); named to the
Ohio State Classic all-tournament team; tallied an assist on opening goal
against Georgetown (9/10); scored first career goal in overtime game against
Virginia Tech (9/18); notched team’s final goal against Akron (9/19); named to
the Penn State Nike Classic all-tournament team; scored first Big Ten goal
against Northwestern (10/8); tallied an assist in Penn State’s win over Bucknell
(10/20); registered three shots and scored fourth goal of season in 3-0 victory
over Cornell (10/27); assisted on game-winning goal at Lehigh (11/7).
High School: Costanzo and teammate Stephen Reihner were both named to
the 2004 EA Sports High School all-America Boys’ Soccer Team; owns
Jefferson Hills’ school record with 107 career goals, where he played for Dr.
Michael Kulish; was named to the U-18 U.S. National Soccer Team in summer
of 2004; two-time NSCAA/Adidas all-America and Regional all-America; 2003
NSCAA Pennsylvania State Player of the Year; 2003 Pennsylvania all-state
Player of the Year; two-time WPIAL Class AA Player of the Year; 2003 EA
Sports all-America; 2002 PIAA Class AA state champions at Thomas Jefferson
High School;
Penn State Personality: Richard Joseph Costanzo was born Feb. 17, 1986, in
Jefferson Hills, Pa.; son of Rich and
Renee Costanzo; he is majoring in Business Finance.
Cottrell
5-6 ‰ 145 ‰ Jr./So. ‰ Forward/Midfielder
Radnor H.S. ‰ Ephrata, Pa.
2004 (Freshman Year): Was an all-Region and all-PSAC perfo rmer at
Millersville; Paced Millersville, which finished 9-7-4, with nine goals and 22 points.
High School: Cottrell was a four-time all-Delaware County and a four-time allMainline player while playing for coach Alan Mezger at Radnor High School; was
a team MVP, and left as the team’s all-time scoring and assists leader.
Penn State Personality: Austin Cottrell was born Nov. 5, 1984, in Ephrata, Pa.;
son of Stephen and Millie Cottrell; Cottrell is majoring in Economics with a minor
in Finance.
OFF THE PITCH WITH AUSTIN COTTRELL
Why did you come to PSU
Academics and soccer
Favorite Quote
“The secret to creativity is knowing how to hide your sources.”- Albert Einstein
Favorite other sport
Hockey
Favorite non-soccer team
Eagles
Favorite actor
Al Pacino
Favorite actress
Julia Roberts
Favorite movie
Scarface
Last CD you bought
Jack Johnson- In Between Dreams
Favorite musical artist
Santana
Favorite ice cream flavor
Cookies ‘n’ Cream
Best book you have read
Crime and Punishment
Favorite TV shows
The Simpsons, Family Guy
Favorite meal
Sushi
Best event attended
NCAA Men’s Soccer Championship- Conneticut vs. Creighton
Best part of your game
Quickness
Most memorable soccer moment Scoring 7 goals in a game an hour after running a 5k
Most embarrassing soccer moment
Scoring on my own net
Personal Goals
Win an NCAA Championship
Hard work, focus and team unity
To start the games on the pitch
Top fitness
OFF THE PITCH WITH RICHARD COSTANZO
22
Why did you come to PSU
To win a National Championship
Favorite Quote
“Some people think soccer is a matter of life and death, I can assure you it is much more
important than that.”
Favorite other sport
Basketball
Favorite actress
Angelina Jolie
Favorite movie
Sleepers
Favorite musical artist
Eminem
Favorite ice cream flavor
Vanilla
Best book you have read
Focused for Soccer
Favorite TV shows
Fox Sports World
Favorite meal
Ribs
Best event attended
Boca Juniors vs. Sao Caento
Best part of your game
Hard work
Which star would be an ideal teammate
Paul Scholes
Favorite soccer team
Manchester United
Your best soccer friend
Jon Yee
Personal Goals
Become extremely fit
Put in a lot of time training and working hard
To be leading scorer and point holder
Work hard to finish my oppurtunities on the field
To win Big Ten and National Championships
Help be a leader on the team and motivate
MEET THE NITTANY LIONS
15
25
David
Michael
Gray
PENN
STATE
SOCCER
Janov
6-1 ‰ 165 ‰ Jr./Jr. ‰ Defender
State College H.S. ‰ Lemont, Pa.
5-10 ‰ 169 ‰ Fr./Fr. ‰ Midfielder
American International School ‰ Vienna, Austria
CAREER STATS
OVERALL
Year
GP
GS
G
A
PTS
SH
2003
11
9
0
1
1
4
2004
16
7
0
1
1
2
Career
27
16
0
2
2
6
2004 (Sophomore Year): Gray continued his progress as a steady defender for
the Nittany Lions, playing in 16 games and starting seven during his sophomore
season; former high school teammate of current Penn State freshman Patrick
Martin; picked up his second career assist in a win over then-No. 25 Southern
Methodist (9/26).
2003 (Freshman Year): A local product out of State College High School, Gray
started in 9 games and played in 11 as a true freshman; tallied 4 shots on goal
during 2003 season; recorded first career point on an assist to help Penn State
defeat Boston College (9/12) in home opener.
High School: Served as a team captain at State College High School, where
he played under the tutelage of former Penn State player John Marsden, in
2002 when the side made it to the PIAA state semi-finals; was the Robert Bruce
Memorial Award Winner and the team MVP; was named to the first team allleague squad.
Penn State Personality: David
Patrick Gray was born Jan. 19,
1985, in State College, Pa.;
son of Gary Gray and
Katie O’Toole; he is
majoring in Business
Marketing.
High School: Janov lettered for five years, serving as team captain for three
years, while playing for head coach Andrew Harrison at the American
International School, in Vienna, Austria; was a three-time International School
Sports Tournament (I.S.S.T.) All-Star; helped his team to the I.S.S.T. final in
2003; played 10 years with the Slovan HAC club team, which is the highest
youth league in Vienna.
Penn State Personality: Michael Janov was born Mar. 18, 1987, in Vienna,
Austria.; son of Juri and Lois Janov; Janov plans to major in Engineering.
OFF THE PITCH WITH MICHAEL JANOV
Why did you come to PSU
Favorite Quote
The right balance between education and soccer
“I am not afraid of the storm for I am learning to sail my ship.”
Favorite other sport
Baseball
Favorite non-soccer team
Wallabies (Australian National Rugby Team)
Favorite actor
Mel Gibson
Favorite actress
Sandra Bullock
Favorite movie
Jerry Maguire
Last CD you bought
Und wenn ein Lied, by Xavier Naidoo
Favorite musical artist
Xavier Naidoo
Favorite ice cream flavor
Stracciatella
Best book you have read
A Hero of Our Time
Which star would be your ideal teammate
Frank Lampard
Favorite meal
Japanese
Best event attended Champions League Game, Arsenal vs. Dynamo Kiev at Highbury
Best part of your game
Headers and setting up plays
Most memorable soccer moment
I.S.S.T. Finals
Closest friend
My cell phone
Personal Goals
Focus on the fundamentals
Learn from new and experienced coaches
Concentrate on conditioning and stamina to remain game-fit and prevent injury
Adjust to the American college style of soccer
OFF THE PITCH WITH DAVID GRAY
Why did you come to PSU
Grew up here and always loved the area.
Favorite Quote
“Don’t be so humble, you’re not that great.”- Golda Meir
Favorite other sport
Basketball, Fly-fishing
Favorite non-soccer team
Eagles, 76ers
Favorite actor
Matt Damon
Favorite actress
Hilary Duff
Favorite movie
Good Will Hunting
Last CD you bought
Oasis- Whats the story? Morning Glory
Favorite musical artist
Bruce Springsteen
Favorite ice cream flavor
Mint Chocolate Chip
Best book you have read
Bonfire of the Vanities, The Godfather
Favorite TV shows
Strange Love, the Simpsons
Favorite meal
Tavern’s Prime Rib
Who would you invite to dinner Gary McAllister, Kipland Dynamite, my parents, Yoda
Best event attended
1994 Final Four in Charlotte, NC
Best part of your game
Work ethic
Most memorable soccer moment First home game on Jeffrey Field- under the lights vs.
BC
Your closest friend
Whoever is buying me lunch
Personal Goals Improve my basic technical skills such as passing, trapping and my vision
Play a consistent game of soccer throughout the season.
Contribute to this team winning the Big Ten Championship, make the NCAA tournament
23
MEET THE NITTANY LIONS
PENN
STATE
SOCCER
14
28
Dylan
Lance
Keener
5-11 ‰ 165 ‰ Fr/Fr. ‰ Midfielder
Eastern Lebanon County H.S. ‰ Myerstown, Pa.
High School: While playing for Michael Seigfried at Eastern Lebanon County
(ELCO) High School, Keener was a two-time Lancaster Lebanon League First
Team All-Star; was a 2004 NSCAA Regional Scholar All-American; won a state
title in 2003, and finished as state runner-up in 2004; ELCO team MVP in 2002;
Harrisburg Patriot-News Big 11 Selection in 2004; ELCO team captain in 2003
and 2004.
Penn State Personality: Dylan Keener was born May 25, 1987, in Myerstown,
Pa.; son of Bryan and Kristi Keener; Keener is a Pre-Med student.
OFF THE PITCH WITH DYLAN KEENER
Why did you come to PSU
To recieve an excellent education and win a national title
Favorite Quote “Excellence doesn’t just happen. It must be passed down and woven into
the very fabric of our souls until it becomes our nature.”
Favorite other sport
Basketball
Favorite non-soccer team
UNC basketball
Favorite actor
Ben Stiller
Favorite actress
Catherine Zeta-Jones
Favorite movie
The Lord of the Rings Trilogy
Last CD you bought
Howie Day- Stop All the World Now
Favorite ice cream flavor
Mint Chocolate Chip
Best book you have read
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
Favorite TV shows
Seinfeld, That ‘70’s show and Sportscenter
Favorite meal
Thanksgiving dinner
Who would you invite to dinner
Mom, Dad, Hilari and Claire
Best event attended
Lazio @ Liverpool
Best part of your game
High work ethic and fitness level
Which star would be an ideal teammate
Steven Gerrard
Most memorable soccer moment
Winning a State Championship
Most embarrassing soccer moment My senior year, a teammate pulled my shorts down
while i was being interviewed by reporters
Personal Goals
Come into preseason physically fit
Eat the right foods, take care of myself and get enough sleep
Don’t let schoolwork be a distraction on the field and vice versa
Make the travel team and earn playing time
Kichler
6-1 ‰ 180 ‰ Fr./Fr. ‰ Goalkeeper
Woodward Academy ‰ Roswell, Ga.
High School: Kichler has extensive experience as a high school, club and ODP
player; Captured the Georgia Class AAAA state title in 2004, and the 2003 and
2004 regional championship, while playing for Steve Reed at the Woodward
Academy; played on the Georgia ODP team 2001-05, capturing the 2004 ODP
Regional championship, and then advancing to the 2005 national final; played
for head coach Tony Annan on the Concorde-Fire Soccer Association club
team, winning the 2001-04 Georgia state titles; was a 2004 Surf Cup MVP goalkeeper.
Penn State Personality: Lance Kichler was born Sept. 25, 1987, in Roswell,
Ga.; son of Bob and Benita Kichler; Kichler is enrolled in the Smeal College of
Business as a Marketing major.
OFF THE PITCH WITH LANCE KICHLER
Why did you come to PSU
The combination of a good business school and a top soccer program
Favorite Quote “There’s no such thing as coulda, shoulda or woulda. If you coulda, shoulda, you woulda done it.”
Favorite other sport
Tennis
Favorite non-soccer team
Atlanta Falcons
Favorite actor
Denzel Washington
Favorite actress
Kiera Knightley
Favorite movie
Gladiator
Last CD you bought
Hopesfall- A Types
Favorite musical artist
Greeley Estates
Favorite ice cream flavor
Strawberry
Best book you have read
Angels and Demons
Favorite TV shows
Family Guy, Las Vegas
Favorite meal
Thai Pad-Si-U with Won-ton soup
Best event attended
The final four NCAA basketball championships
Best part of your game
Communication
Most memorable soccer moment
Winning the Region III Southern Regional
Most embarrassing soccer moment Losing in overtime of a major soccer tournament in
under 10 seconds
Favorite soccer team
Manchester United
Personal Goals
Winning the Big Ten Championship
Hard work, determination and Preparation
Agility: Training in and out of the gym; on and off the soccer field
24
‰ Members of the Penn State soccer team regularly stick around
‰ Penn State head coach Barry Gorman (left) poses for a picture
after games to sign autographs for fans at Jeffrey Field.
with Brazilian World Cup soccer legend Romario.
MEET THE NITTANY LIONS
3
4
Andy
Geordie
Machi
5-11 ‰ 175 ‰ Fr./Fr. ‰ Defender
Upper St. Clair H.S. ‰ Upper St. Clair, Pa.
High School: Machi was named to the PIAA all-state team while playing for
head coach Uwe Schneider at Upper St. Clair H.S.; was a two-time WPIAL
District 7 player, as well as a two-time all-Section 5 selection; was named to the
Pittsburgh Tribune-Review and Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Elite 11 squads; twotime state champions at Upper St. Clair; two-time Offensive Player of the Year
at Upper St. Clair; three-time studentsportssoccer.com all-American; three-time
PA West state champions, two-time PA West finalis, and a Region I seminfinalist
while playing for Wade Jean on Beadling SC; Played for the PA West ODP team
1999-2004.
Penn State Personality: Andy Machi was born Jan 24, 1987, in Upper St. Clair,
Pa.; son of Tony and Charlene Machi; Machi is undecided on his major.
OFF THE PITCH WITH ANDY MACHI
Why did you come to PSU
An oppurtunity to play on a nationally ranked soccer team and receieve an exceptional education
Favorite Quote
“Luck is the residue of practice and preparation.”
Favorite other sport
Football
Favorite non-soccer team
Pittsburgh Steelers
Favorite actor
Ben Stiller
Favorite movie
Dodgeball
Last CD you bought
Dave Matthews
Favorite musical artist
The Goo Goo Dolls
Favorite ice cream flavor
Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough
Best book you have read
The Lord of the Rings: Return of the King
Favorite meal
Pizza
Who would you invite to dinner
Mom, Dad, Grandmother and brother
Best event attended
Lakers basketball games
Best part of your game
Field Vision
Which star would be an ideal teammate
David Beckham
Most memorable soccer moment Scoring the winning goals in two State Championships
Favorite soccer team
Manchester United
Personal Goals
Play in an NCAA Championship game
Apply everything the coaches taught me and
Make the starting lineup: Preseason preparation, come to camp ready to play
PENN
STATE
SOCCER
MacNeill
6-2 ‰ 180 ‰ So./So. ‰ Defender
Holy Trinity H.S. ‰ Richmond Hill, Ont., Canada
CAREER STATS
OVERALL
Year
GP
GS
G
A
PTS
SH
2004
13
9
1
0
2
3
Career
13
9
1
0
2
3
2004 (Freshman Year): MacNeill saw action in 13 games, including nine starts,
as a freshman defender; scored one goal and registered three shots; picked up
first collegiate goal in first career game against Akron (9/19); started first career
game at Northwestern (10/8).
High School: MacNeill was the 2003 team captain while playing under the
direction of Jim Darling at Holy Trinity; he was a CR Select all-star and a
College Prospect all-star; played for the Markham Lightning Soccer Club; was a
member of the National Training Centre of Ontario.
Penn State Personality: Gordon “Geordie” Glenn MacNeill was born Jan. 7,
1986, in Houston, Texas; son of Glenn and Gail MacNeill; he is majoring in
Business.
OFF THE PITCH WITH GEORDIE MACNEILL
Why did you come to PSU
It is a school of academic, athletic and social tradition
Favorite Quote
“Victory or death.”
Favorite other sport
Football
Favorite non-soccer team
Toronto Maple Leafs
Favorite actor
Mel Gibson
Favorite actress
J-Lo.
Favorite movie
Braveheart
Last CD you bought
Snoop Dogg
Favorite musical artist
Biggie
Favorite ice cream flavor
Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough
Best book you have read
Keane, the Autobiography
Favorite TV shows
Family Guy, Crashers
Favorite meal
Steak, mashed potatoes, ribs and milk
Who would you invite to dinner William Wallace, Ferdinand, BIG and Winston Churchill
Best event attended
Raptors game
Best part of your game
Sweeping on offense and marking
Which star would be an ideal teammate
Rio Ferdinand
Most memorable soccer moment
Scoring my first collegiate goal
Most embarrassing soccer moment
Forgetting an important part of game material
Personal Goals
Start for Penn State
Practice well and improve yself, listen to advice and constantly improve
25
MEET THE NITTANY LIONS
PENN
STATE
SOCCER
16
9
Patrick
Barkley
Martin
6-0 ‰ 175 ‰ Fr./Fr. ‰ Defender
State College H.S. ‰ State College Pa.
High School: While playing for former Penn State men’s soccer player John
Marsden, Martin was honored as a three-time all-District 6 player at State
College H.S.
Penn State Personality: Patrick Martin was born Nov. 30, 1986, in State
College, Pa.; son of Phillip and Rose Martin; Martin is enrolled in the Smeal
College of Business as a Business major.
OFF THE PITCH WITH PATRICK MARTIN
Why did you come to PSU After moving to State College, I fell in love with the campus.
Favorite Quote
“I find that the harder I work, the more luck I seem to have.”- Thomas Jefferson
Favorite other sport
Golf
Favorite non-soccer team
Eagles
Favorite actor
Brad Pitt
Favorite actress
Julia Roberts
Favorite movie
Goodwill Hunting
Last CD you bought
Jay Z/Linkin Park Remix
Favorite musical artist
Dave Matthews
Favorite ice cream flavor
Strawberry
Best book you have read
The Giver
Favorite TV shows
Overhaulin’
Favorite meal
Steak and potatoes
Best event attended
Manchester United vs. Celtic
Best part of your game
Winning balls in the air
Which star would be an ideal teammate
Zidane
Most memorable soccer moment
State semi-finals sophomore year in high school
Favorite soccer team
Manchester United
Personal Goals
Aquire a starting position my freshman year
Get stronger through weight training, get faster through speed training
Miller
6-0 ‰ 177 ‰ Fr./Fr. ‰ Defender
Susquehannock H.S. ‰ New Freedom, Pa.
High School: Miller was a four-year varsity starter while playing for Steve
Correri at Susquehannock H.S.; was a three-time York County All-Star and a
two-time York County Player of the Year; he was on the 2003 and 2004 all-state
team, and he was a 2004 East Regional All-American; played for Tim Oswald on
the PSC Coppa club team, capturing the 2004 EPA State Cup Championship,
and the 2003 EPA State Cup runner-up; played on the EPYSA ODP team 19972003.
Penn State Personality: Jonathan Barkley Miller was born Oct. 13, 1986, in
New Freedom, Pa.; son of George and Charlet Miller; Miller is entrolled in the
Division of Undergraduate Studies.
OFF THE PITCH WITH BARKLEY MILLER
Why did you come to PSU
For its outstanding academic programs, atmosphere and great soccer program
Favorite Quote
“In order to succeed, your desire for success should be greater than your fear of failure.”
- Bill Cosby
Favorite other sport
Football
Favorite non-soccer team
Florida Gators
Favorite actor
Adam Sandler
Favorite actress
Angelina Jolie
Favorite movie
Old School
Last CD you bought
John Legend
Favorite ice cream flavor
Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough
Favorite TV shows
Seinfeld, SportsCenter, Family Guy, EPL Review
Who would you invite to dinner
Will Ferrell, Thierry Henry, Brett Favre, My brother
Best event attended
Ajax tournament in Amsterdam
Best part of your game
Passing
Which star would be an ideal teammate
Patrick Viera
Most memorable soccer moment
Playing in Europe
Personal Goals
Improve fitness and flexibility
Run and stretch a lot
Use my right foot more: Pass, shoot and have more confidence with it
Tackling: Don’t stab or go in soft.
26
‰ Head coach Barry Gorman poses for a picture with former Penn
State
‰ Nigel Sparks (left)
and Steve Sergi both won the Big Ten Player of
the Year Award, in 1992 and 1991, Respectively.
MEET THE NITTANY LIONS
18
12
Simon
Mergen
Omekanda
5-8 ‰ 178 ‰ Jr./Jr. ‰ Forward
Rochester Adams H.S. ‰ Rochester Hills, Mich.
CAREER STATS
OVERALL
Year
GP
GS
G
A
PTS
SH
2003
20
20
3
8
14
50
2004
22
13
6
5
17
61
Career
42
33
9
13
31
111
2004 (Sophomore Year): Omekanda, a speedy and talented foward, enters the
2005 season with more career points (31) than any other returning player; was
second on the team in scoring in 2004; recorded first goal of season off a
penalty kick against then-No. 8 Wake Forest (9/5); had a goal and two assists
against Georgetown (9/10); named to the University of Maryland all-tournament
team; scored the opening goal against Virginia Tech (9/18); had two assists
against Big Ten rival Wisconsin (10/10); scored a goal against then-No. 21
Maryland (10/14); scored fifth goal of season, a game-winner, at Lehigh (11/7).
2003 (Freshman Year): Started all 20 games and was named to the Big Ten’s
all-Freshmen team; tallied an assist in first collegiate game versus then-No. 1
UCLA (8/29); scored first career goal, a game-winner, in Penn State’s win over
Bradley (9/5); picked up another game-winning goal and had seven shots on
goal in victory over Tulsa (9/7); picked up Ohio State Classic MVP for two gamewinning goals; was named to the College Soccer News and Soccer America
National Teams-of-the-Week for his efforts at the Ohio State Classic; assisted
on both Nittany Lion goals in 2-1 win over Boston College (9/12); scored one
goal and had three shots in win over St. Bonaventure (9/21); recorded two
assists in 3-1 win over Northwestern (10/2); notched an assist on game-winner
in Big Ten Championship first round win over Michigan State (11/13).
High School: Was named 2002 Mr. Michigan and was selected to the all-state
team; an NSCAA All-American and Gatorade Player of the Year.
Penn State Pe rsonality: Simon Okende
Omekanda was born Sept. 15, 1984, in
Rabat, Morocco; son of Avoki and Marie
Omekanda; he is majoring in Electrical
Engineering.
PENN
STATE
SOCCER
Orazov
6-0 ‰ 165 ‰ Fr./Fr. ‰ Forward
Turgut Ozal H.S. ‰ Ashgabat, Turkmenistan
High School: Orazov played for coach Sylap Rahadow at Turgut Ozal High
School in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan.
Penn State Personality: Mergen Orazov was born in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan.;
son of Guvanch and Gulalek Orazov; Orazov is planning on majoring in
Engineering.
OFF THE PITCH WITH MERGEN ORAZOV
Why did you come to PSU
Because my brother studied here, and I wanted to also
Favorite soccer team
Bayern Munich
Favorite other sport
Basketball
Favorite non-soccer team
Portland Trailblazers
Favorite actor
Tom Hanks
Favorite actress
Jennifer Aniston
Favorite movie
The Gladiator
Last CD you bought
Linkin Park featuring Jay Z
Favorite ice cream flavor
Chocolate
Best book you’ve read
Dale Carnegie
Favorite TV shows
Euro Goals on ESP
Favorite meal
Pizza
Best event attended
Asian Champions League game
Best part of your game
When I score a goal
Which star would be an ideal teammate
Thiery Henry
Most memorable soccer moment scored a goal in final game of Umbro Cup in England
Most embarrassing soccer moment
I couldn’t score a off a penalty during the semifinal of a big tournament, and our team lost
the game
Personal Goals
Score 20 goals
OFF THE PITCH WITH SIMON OMEKANDA
Why did you come to PSU
Because of its coaching staff
Favorite Quote
“It’s not where you start, it’s where you finish.”
Favorite other sport
Basketball
Favorite non-soccer team
Detroit Pistons
Favorite actor
Denzel Washington
Favorite actress
Halle Berry
Favorite movie
Usual Suspects
Last CD you bought
Never bought a CD
Favorite musical artist
Women of faith
Favorite ice cream flavor
Vanilla
Best book you have read
Ronaldo (autobiography)
Favorite TV shows
The Simpsons
Favorite meal
Thanksgiving dinner
Who would you invite to dinner
Michael A. Smith, Dick Vital, Stuart Scott and Digger Phelps
Best event attended
Santos vs. Inter
Best part of your game
Speed
Which star would be an ideal teammate
Thierry Henry
Most memorable soccer moment
HS State Championship in 1999
Most embarrassing soccer moment
Losing the State Cup Final in 2001
Favorite soccer team
Real Madrid
Your best soccer friend
Nathan Norman
Your closest friend
Jean-Lucien Omekanda (brother)
Personal Goals
Winning a National Championship and a Big Ten Championship
Become an All-American and All Big Ten
Score at least 15 goals
Finishing my chances
27
MEET THE NITTANY LIONS
PENN
STATE
SOCCER
7
5
Milan
Stephen
Popovic
5-10 ‰ 145 ‰ Fr./Fr. ‰ Forward
IV Beogradska Gimnazija H.S. ‰ Belgrade, Serbia
High School: Popovic played for coach Zvonko Zivkovic at IV Beogradska
Gimnazija, where he won a youth championship and the Serbia Cup; won several international tournaments and was his team’s leading scorer in several tournaments while playing for coach Dusan Surucic on the Trudbenik club team.
Penn State Personality: Milan Popovic was born Mar. 13, 1985, in Belgrade,
Serbia; son of Miroslav and Korina Popovic; Popovic is enrolled in the Division
of Undergraduate Studies.
OFF THE PITCH WITH MILAN POPOVIC
Why did you come to PSU To be able to play and study at a high level at the same time
Favorite other sport
Tennis
Favorite non-soccer team
Sacramento Kings
Favorite actor
Al Pacino
Favorite actress
Julia Roberts
Favorite movie
Rocky I
Last CD you bought
Natasa Bekvalac
Favorite musical artist
Bonnie Tyler
Favorite ice cream flavor
Chocolate
Best book you have read
Crime and Punishment
Favorite TV shows
Friends
Favorite meal
Lasanga
Who would you invite to dinner
Jennifer Lopez, Beyonce, Jessica Simpson and
Demi Moore
Best event attended
A Calco match, Juventus-Fiorentina
Best part of your game
Scoring goals
Which star would be an ideal teammate
Ronaldhino
Most memorable soccer moment
Winning youth championship in my country
Most embarrassing soccer moment
Lost match versus Lazio
Favorite soccer team
Chelsea
Personal Goals
Win an NCAA Championship
Score at least 12 goals
Always be in position to score a goal, concentrate, have team support
OFF THE PITCH WITH STEPHEN REIHNER
28
Why did you come to PSU
Good education, soccer
Favorite Quote
“I find that the harder I work, the more luck I seem to have.”
Favorite other sport
Ski Racing
Favorite non-soccer team
US Ski Team
Favorite actor
Tom Hanks
Favorite actress
Minnie Driver
Favorite movie
Braveheart
Last CD you bought
Nelly
Favorite musical artist
Rascal Flatts
Favorite ice cream flavor
Chocolate
Best book you have read
Hatchet
Favorite TV shows
CSI
Favorite meal
Chicken Wings
Who would you invite to dinner
My Family
Best event attended
‘94 World Cup
Best part of your game
Work ethic
Which star would be an ideal teammate
Lance Armstrong
Most memorable soccer moment
Winning my first State Championship
Favorite soccer team
Arsenal
Personal Goals
Become one of the best defenders in the Nation
Work ethic, mental toughness, passion for the game
Score eight goals this season
Reihner
5-10 ‰ 171 ‰ So./So. ‰ Defender
The Linsley School ‰ Washington, Pa.
CAREER STATS
OVERALL
Year
GP
GS
G
A
PTS
SH
2004
20
15
0
1
1
8
Career
20
15
0
1
1
8
2004 (Freshman Year): Reihner capped off an outstanding freshman season by
being named to the Big Ten all-Freshman team; played in 20 games, starting 20
on defense; recorded first career assist against then-No. 21 Maryland (10/14).
High School: Reihner and teammate Richard Costanzo were both named to
the 2004 EA Sports High School all-American Boys’ Soccer Team; Reihner
excelled under the tutelage of Dave Coutts at The Linsley School; he was a
2003 NSCAA/Adidas all-America and Regional all-America; 2003 NSCAA West
Virginia Player of the Year; 2002 and 2003 West Virginia all-state first team;
2003 West Virginia all-state Player of the Year; 2003 all-Ohio Valley Athletic
Conference Player of the Year; 2000-03 All-Ohio Valley Athletic Conference first
team; played for Brian Retzloff at the Beadling Soccer Club, four-time
Pennsylvania West state champions; also played for West Virginia Eagles, fourtime West Virginia staet champions; was a member of the 1998-2003 PA West
ODP team; played on Region I ODP team 1998, 1999 and 2002.
Penn State Personality: Stephen John Reihner was born Oct. 10, 1985, in
Washington, Pa.; son of John and Robyn Reihner; he plans to major in
Business.
MEET THE NITTANY LIONS
2
21
Grady
Dan
Renfrow
PENN
STATE
SOCCER
Shaffer
5-10 ‰ 166 ‰ Jr./So. ‰ Defender
Gonzaga College H.S. ‰ Washington, D.C.
5-8 ‰ 160 ‰ So./So. ‰ Midfielder
Manheim Township H.S. ‰ Lancaster, Pa.
CAREER STATS
CAREER STATS
OVERALL
OVERALL
Year
GP
GS
G
A
PTS
SH
Year
GP
GS
G
A
PTS
SH
2003
12
5
0
1
1
0
2004
5
0
1
0
2
5
Career
12
5
0
1
1
0
Career
5
0
1
0
2
5
2004 (Sophomore Ye a r ):Renfrow redshirted in 2004 while recovering from
Leukemia.
2003 (Freshman Ye a r ): Saw action in 12 ga m e s, including 5 start s, during freshman season; picked up first career assist to help Penn State earn first victory of
season over Bra d l ey (9-5).
High School: Served as team captain for Gonzaga College High School in 2002
while playing for Don Smith; 2002 All-WCAC First Team selection; team MVP in
2002; WCAC Player of the Year finalist; Bryc Condors club team captain while
under the direction of Harry Opoku; member of the Virginia state ODP team; D.C.
United Super Y National Finalist in 2002.
Penn State Personality: Grady Wilson Renfrow was born Aug. 26 , 1984, in
Washington, D.C.; son of Phillip and Nancy Renfrow; he is undecided on his
major.
2004 (Freshman Year): Shaffer saw action in five games in 2004; scored his
first career goal in his first collegiate game against Wisconsin (10/10).
High School: 2002 and 2003 Lancaster-Lebanon League first-team all-star
while playing for Dave Ammon at Manheim Township High School; 2001
Lancaster-Lebanon League second team all-star; played for John Hingley at the
FC Delco Soccer Club, two-time Pennsylvania East state champions; 2002
USYSA national finalist and 2002 USYSA Region I champions; was a member
of the EPYSA ODP club in 1999.
Penn State Personality: Daniel J. Shaffer was born Oct. 4, 1985, in Lancaster,
Pa.; son of Charlie and Diane Shaffer; Shaffer is enrolled in the Smeal College
of Business with a major in Business Management.
OFF THE PITCH WITH DAN SHAFFER
Why did you come to PSU
For superior athletics and a great education
Favorite Quote
“Victory belongs to the most persevering.”- Napoleon
Favorite other sport
Basketball
Favorite non-soccer team
UNC Basketball
Favorite movie
Fight Club
Last CD you bought
James Taylor’s Greatest Hits
Favorite musical artist
Guns N’ Roses
Favorite ice cream flavor
Mint
Best book you have read
Timeline
Favorite TV shows
The Simpsons, Family Guy
Favorite meal
Steak
Best event attended
Barcelona vs. Manchester United
Best part of your game
Vision on the field
Most memorable soccer moment
Winning Regionals in overtime
Personal Goals
Win a starting position
Work on my weaknesses to become one of the best starting 11
Win a Big Ten Championship
Win an NCAA Championship
OFF THE PITCH WITH GRADY RENFROW
Why did you come to PSU
Favorite Quote
Favorite other sport
Favorite non-soccer team
Favorite actor
Favorite actress
Favorite movie
Last CD you bought
Favorite musical artist
Favorite ice cream flavor
Best book you have read
Favorite TV shows
Favorite meal
Best event attended
Best part of your game
Personal Goals
The excellence: both soccer and academics
LiveSTRONG
Cycling
US Postal Cycling Team
Robin Williams
Selma Hayeck
Life Aquatic
UCB Back to Basix
Bob Marley
Mint Chocolate Chip
Its not about the Bike
The Simpsons, The Cosby Show
Macaroni and Cheese
Floor seats at the Wizards vs. Pistons
hard work and simple play
Get back into playing fitness
Secure starting position, Lead the team in assists
Win the Big Ten in 2005
29
MEET THE NITTANY LIONS
PENN
STATE
SOCCER
1
29
Conrad
Michael
Taylor
Tilatti
5-8 ‰ 167 ‰ So./So. ‰ Goalkeeper
Liberty H.S. ‰ Colorado Springs, Colo.
6-1 ‰ 175 ‰ Fr./Fr. ‰ Goalkeeper
St. Michael’s College ‰ Thornhill, Ont., Canada
CAREER STATS
OVERALL
Year
GP
GS
Rec.
Min.
SV
GA
GAA
2004
22
22
10-4-8
2210:21
75
25
1.02
Career
22
22
10-4-8
2210:21
75
25
1.02
2004 (Freshman Year): Taylor had a tremendous freshman season, playing every
minute in goal for the Nittany Lions; tabbed a Freshman All-America by Soccer America;
was named to the Top Dra wer Soccer and College Soccer News all-Freshman firs t
teams; was also named to the Big Ten All-Freshman team; ga rnered Big Ten Defe n s ive
Player of the Week award five times, including three straight weeks (9/5-19); picked up
f i rst career shutout against then-No. 2 St. John’s (9/12); recorded second shutout in 4-0
win over Akron (9/19) at Penn State Nike Classic; named to Penn State Nike Classic allt o u rnament team; tallied first career assist against then-No. 25 Tulsa (9/24); recorded
third shutout against George Mason (9/28); made four saves in fo u rth shutout against
B u cknell (10/20); stopped three shots for fifth shutout, and first ever back - t o - b a ck
s h u t o u t s,against Big Ten foe Mich i gan State (10/24); made third straight shutout aga i n s t
Cornell (10/27); stopped four shots in fo u rth consecutive shutout at Mich i gan (10/31);
recorded eighth shutout of season in 1-0 win at Lehigh (11/7).
High School: Taylor was named the 2003 NSCAA Scholar/all-America Player of the Ye a r;
2003 NSCAA Scholar/Regional all-America; 2002 and 2003 NSCAA/Adidas ODP Youth allAmerica; 2003 Adidas ESP selection; 2003 Adidas ESP all-star Golden Glove; 2002
Colorado H.S. all state team; 2001 MVP of Colorado state championship game; played for
Colorado Rush Soccer Club; was
a 2000-03 Colorado ODP
team member; 2000-03
Region IV ODP team memb e r; was the Golden Glove
winner on the Region IV ODP
team in 2000 and 2001; member of U.S. U-14 national team;
also a member of the U.S. U-16
n ational team.
Penn State Personality:
Conrad Martin Taylor was
born March 26, 1986, in
Colorado Springs, Colo.; son
of Brad and Sharon Taylor;
he is majoring in Kinesiology.
30
High School: Tilatti played for coach Nick Di Pinto at St. Michael’s College
School, where he captured the 2001 CISAA championship; high school team
also went to the CISAA finals in 2002 and 2004; won the March Madness Indoor
Tournament in 2005; also played club soccer for coach Patrick Brodie on the
Brampton Bandits, where his club won the Ontario Cup in 2004, and the OISL
championships in 2003 and 2004; was a Woodbridge Super Cup and
Woodbridge Showcase finalist in 2004; also won the West Niagara Tournament
in 2004; won the CSL championships in 1998, 1999 and 2001.
Penn State Personality: Michael Tilatti was born June 15, 1987, in Thornhill,
Ontario, Canada; son of Louis and Dana Tilatti; Tilatti is majoring in Civil
Engineering.
OFF THE PITCH WITH MICHAEL TILATTI
Why did you come to PSU The Engineering and soccer programs are among the best in
the United States
Favorite other sport
American Football
Favorite non-soccer team
Toronto Maple Leafs
Favorite Actor
Al Pacino
Favorite Actress
Angelina Jolie
Favorite movie
Godfather Part I
Favorite musical artist
No preference
Favorite ice cream flavor
Vanilla
Best book you have read
To Kill a Mockingbird
Favorite TV shows
Relic Hunter, Apprentice
Favorite meal
Veal Parmesan, Spaghetti
Best event attended
Rangers vs. Tottenham at Ibrox (Preseason)
Best part of your game
Diving
Most memorable soccer moment Training with Glasgow Rangers first team in July 2004
Personal Goals
Play as many games as possible for Penn State
Have less than a 1.00 goals against average per game
Keep high level of fitness
Play smart
Communicate with defense
OFF THE PITCH WITH CONRAD TAYLOR
Why did you come to PSU
It has a good mix of academics and athletics
Favorite Quote
“Every man dies, not every man truly lives.”
Favorite other sport
Volleyball
Favorite non-soccer team
US Postal Cycling Team
Favorite actor
Nicolas Cage
Favorite actress
Charlize Theron
Favorite movie
Braveheart
Last CD you bought
Jimmy Eat World: Futures
Favorite musical artist
Dave Matthews Band
Favorite ice cream flavor
Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough
Best book you have read
Atlas Shrugged
Favorite TV shows
Sportscenter
Favorite meal
Any kind of shrimp
Who would you invite to dinner
Lance Armstong, Dave Matthews
Best event attended
Professional soccer games in South America
Best part of your game
Athleticism
Most memorable soccer moment Winning a National Championship with the State team
Most embarrassing soccer moment 1st goal I allowed against Northwestern last season
Favorite soccer team
Liverpool
Personal Goals
Win the Big Ten Tournament
Allow less than 10 goals in the regular season
Good organization of defense and concentration on shot stopping in training
MEET THE NITTANY LIONS
22
13
John
Markku
Tilghman
5-9 ‰ 150 ‰ Fr./Fr. ‰ Midfielder
Mandeville H.S. ‰ Mandeville, La.
High School: Tilghman captured four state championships while playing for
coach Shane Jeanfreau on the Mandeville Soccer Club team; was a five-time LA
ODP player in the Region III pool.
Penn State Personality: John Tilghman was born Nov. 12, 1986, in Mandeville,
La.; son of Dale and Anne Tilghman; Tilghman is enrolled in the Smeal College
of Business as a Business major.
OFF THE PITCH WITH JOHN TILGHMAN
Why did you come to PSU To get a business degree from an outstanding university and
play in a great soccer program
Favorite Quote“It’s not the size of the dog in the fight, it’s the size of the fight in the dog.”
Favorite other sport
Surfing
Favorite non-soccer team
Indianapolis Colts
Favorite actor
Ben Stiller
Favorite actress
Selma Hayek
Favorite movie
Cruel Intentions
Last CD you bought
Lynard Skynard Greatest Hits
Favorite musical artist
Led Zepplin
Favorite ice cream flavor
Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough
Best book you have read
Adventures of Huckleberry Finn
Favorite TV shows
Seinfeld, Family Guy, TILT
Favorite meal
Country fried steak with mashed potatoes
Best event attended
US Men’s National Team vs. Equador
Best part of your game
Ability to use both feet
Which star would be an ideal teammate
Landon Donovan
Most memorable soccer moment
Winning U-16 Premier State Championship
Favorite soccer team
Manchester United
Personal Goals
Starting midfield for PSU
Arrive at PSU in the best possible physical and soccer condition
Big Ten Freshman of the Year
Work harder than everyone everyday and make things happen on the field
PENN
STATE
SOCCER
Viitanen
6-0 ‰ 174 ‰ Jr./Jr. ‰ Defender
Sampo H.S. ‰ Pirkkala, Finland
CAREER STATS
OVERALL
Year
GP
GS
G
A
PTS
SH
2003
18
17
2
0
4
11
2004
19
19
0
2
2
5
Career
37
36
2
2
6
16
2004 (Sophomore Year): Viitanen was an integral part of Penn State’s defense
that let up about a goal a game; started and played in 19 games; recorded first
assist of season against then-No. 15 SMU (9/26); named to Tulsa Golden
Hurricane Classic all-tournament team; had two shots on goal and picked up an
assist in 3-0 victory over Cornell (10/27).
2003 (Freshman Year): Viitanen became a mainstay on the Penn State defense
during his freshman season; scored both Penn State goals in a loss versus
Michigan (10/26); gained valuable experience by playing in all 3 games at the
Big Ten Championships (11/13-16).
High School: Played with ILVES Youth team in 2002; scored 1 goal and assisted
on 5 more while playing 10 games in Finland’s Youth Championship League;
played and started in 22 games with 2 goals and 6 assists with Ilves in 2001;
selected twice for the U-16 and U-17 Talent Camps National Team; was a
Regional Team selection.
Penn State Personality: Markku Johannes Viitanen was born Dec. 12, 1983, in
Pirkkala, Finland; son of Asko and Anne
Viitanen; Viitanen is enrolled in the
Smeal College of Business with
a major in Management.
OFF THE PITCH WITH MARKKU VIITANEN
Why did you come to PSU
Favorite other sport
Favorite non-soccer team
Favorite actor
Favorite actress
Favorite movie
Last CD you bought
Favorite musical artist
Favorite ice cream flavor
Best book you have read
Favorite TV shows
Favorite meal
Who would you invite to dinner
Best event attended
Best part of your game
Which star would be an ideal teammate
Most memorable soccer moment
Most embarrassing soccer moment
Favorite soccer team
Personal Goals
New challenges
Golf
Ilves (ice hockey team)
Jim Carey
Nicole Kidman
Team America
Snoop Doggy Dogg
Snoop Doggy Dogg
Vanilla
Harry “the magic” Potter
Whose line is it anyway?
Maksalaatikko
Matti Nykanen, Noora Johansson, Mom
Ilves vs. Gretzky all-stars
Ball-eye
Ivan Helguera
IlvesA vs. WimbeldonA
Missed a penalty kick
Tampere United
Help team to win something
Work harder than ever before
Improve as an individual
Practice, practice, practice
31
MEET THE NITTANY LIONS
PENN
STATE
SOCCER
17
Jason
Yeisley
6-1 ‰ 185 ‰ Fr./Fr. ‰ Forward
Salisbury, H.S. ‰ Allentown, Pa.
High School: Yeisley was the 2002-04 Salisbury High School team MVP while
playing for coach Mark Allinson; set Salisbury’s school record for goals with 153;
was named the 2004 Lehigh Valley Soccer Scholar-Athlete; named to the 2003
and 2004 PSCA all-state team and the NSCAA all-East Region II teams; named
the Morning Call’s Player of the Year in 2003 and 2004; was first team allColonial Conference 2001-04; played for Tim Oswald on the PSC Coppa club
team, where they were the EPA state finalists in 2004; was also a member of
the EPYSA ODP team in 2004 and the Region I ODP in 2005.
Penn State Personality: Jason Yeisley was born Sept. 30, 1986, in Allentown,
Pa.; son of Geary and Katie Yeisley; Yeisley is enrolled in Penn State’s PreMedicine program.
‰ George Geczy was
the goalkeeper on the 1954 and 1955 Penn
State soccer teams, leading the squad to back-to-back unbeaten and
untied national championship seasons.
OFF THE PITCH WITH JASON YEISLEY
Why did you come to PSU
A great combination of academics and athletics
Favorite Quote
“Play for more than you can afford to lose, and then you will learn the
game.”
Favorite other sport
Volleyball
Favorite non-soccer team
Pittsburgh Steelers
Favorite actor
John Belushi
Favorite actress
Angelina Jolie
Favorite movie
Animal House
Favorite musical artist
Tom Petty
Favorite ice cream flavor
Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough
Best book you have read
The Catcher in the Rye
Favorite TV shows
Sportscenter
Favorite meal
Pizza
Who would you invite to dinner
Ruud Van Nistelrooy, Wayne Rooney,
Clerance Seerdorf and Landon Donovan
Best event attended
Manchester United vs. Barcelona at Lincoln Financial Field
Best part of your game
Finishing
Which star would be an ideal teammate
Ruud Van Nistelrooy
Most memorable soccer moment
Going to England with my Club Team
Favorite soccer team
Manchester United
Personal Goals
Play for Penn State as a freshman
Work my hardest, be in good shape, lift and play soccer often and maintain excellence in
the classroom
Be at optimal body weight for playing soccer
Proper nutrition and hydration, combination of lifting and running
‰ Left to right: Brent Jacquette, Trevor Gorman, the Nittany Lion,
head coach Barry Gorman, and Brenda Gorman.
32
‰ Penn State always has a strong following on the road. This picture
‰ The Penn State starting 11 huddles prior to the start of another
is from the 2003 Big Ten Championships, in Bloomington, Ind.
game at Jeffrey Field.