The Women’s Professional League (WPS), which begins play this Spring, held it’s first Player’s Draft on Friday at the NSCAA Convention. From players hoping to be drafted, including Southwest Baptist Bearcat Aude Lechat, a native of France who has anchored the Bearcat defense the past three years, earning team MVP honors in 2006 (pictured in white, left photo) – to the Coaching and management staffs from the leagues teams, it was a busy day at America’s Center. Pictured on the right is Jorge Barcellos, GM and Head Coach of Athletica who was assisted by Steve Pecher during the draft.

You can follow the action this season on the WPS “Fan Corner” which has a complete list of the draft. Athletica drafted Kerri Hanks, recent Hermann Trophy winner, where she would join Lori Chalupny and Hope Solo.

For the undrafted player, there are Open Tryouts scheduled throughout the League. Saint Louis Athletica will be holding open tryouts on February 4th, 5th and 6th from 8am to 4pm at St. Louis Scott Gallagher Complex in Creve Couer Missouri. Participants in this tryout may be selected to compete in an invitation-only tryout the following week on Feb 11, 12 and 13th (8am to 4pm). Click here to register for the open tryout. After you register – more information will be provided.