WEST HAVEN, Conn. – The University of New Haven women’s soccer program recently announced its first two recruits to commit to the Chargers for next season. Shelbi Guimond of Gorham, Maine and Courtney Marra of Danbury, Conn. have signed a National Letter of Intent to play at UNH.
The midfielder/defender from Maine enjoyed a prolific soccer career at Gorham High School. Guimond, a four-time varsity letter-winner, led the Rams to a State Championship in 2007 and two Western Maine State Championships in 2007 and 2008. In 2009, she was selected to the Western Maine All-Conference team after leading the club to the Western Maine State Finals. In her senior season as the team captain, Guimond once again garnered All-Conference honors.
Outside of high school, Guimond was also a member of the Maine Coast United Club team. She endured great success with that squad as well, leading them to five consecutive state championships and regional appearances from 2006-10.
“I am very excited that Shelbi has chosen to join us at the University of New Haven this fall. Shelbi comes from one of the top club programs in Maine, Maine Coast United who have claimed five state cup titles,” commented head women’s soccer coach Laura Duncan. “I believe the coaching she has received over the past few years has prepared her very well to make the next step to college. Shelbi is a versatile player that will be bringing a strong presence to our current roster. Her strength on the ball and her ability to play accurate passes will be a benefit for us in a competitive NE-10 Conference.”
Marra, a versatile athlete that can play every field position, was a member of the Immaculate High School soccer team for the past four years. The Mustangs were very successful during her career, as the squad earned three State Championships from 2008-10. Individually, Marra was selected to the All-South West Conference and All-State teams during those campaigns as well. She was also awarded All-New England accolades in her junior and senior seasons.
Coach Duncan remarks, “I am thrilled to have a talented Connecticut player join our roster for 2011. Courtney will be challenging for a spot on the midfield/forward line, and will do so with her speed and aggression she brings to the game. Courtney reads the game very well and is unselfish in assisting teammates, but has a great eye for the goal too. Coming up through the Connecticut Football Club program, she is prepared mentally and physically to step on the field for UNH.”
Fresh off their sixth straight postseason appearance, the Chargers will kick off their 18th season in the fall of 2011.