Clay High School’s Curley Signs with Rio Women’s Soccer

PORTSMOUTH, Ohio – University of Rio Grande women’s soccer head coach Callum Morris has announced the signing of Clay High School’s Shannon Curley for the 2014 season.

Curley, a 5-foot-1 midfielder, earned both first team All-District and All-Conference honors during her senior season for head coach Roger Compton’s Panthers.

During her senior season, Curley led the team with 14 assists and was second with eight goals.

“I’m so happy to have this opportunity,” Curley said. “The whole experience is such a huge blessing and I could not be more thankful. Playing collegiately has been a goal of mine since I’ve been able to kick a ball around.”

Morris is excited as well.

“Shannon will add a bit of grit and determination to our squad,” said Morris. “She will definitely work hard and try and compete for a spot in the starting lineup. She plays very aggressive on the field and does well to get through the tackles on the field. She has something that I think we lacked last season and that’s physicality and aggressiveness.”

Curley, who will major in nursing, noted that her familiarity with the program and school due to her father played a major role in her interest in Rio Grande.

“My dad has officiated men’s and women’s matches at Rio,” said Curley. “I would always come along to watch, so I guess I’ve always had this want and desire to play at Rio.”

When asked about her ultimate goal over the next four years, Curley kept the answer short and sweet.

“My goal is to become an overall better player and person on and off the field.”

Curley is the daughter of Susan and Nate Curley of Portsmouth.