Two Western Texas College soccer players signed with four-year schools on Thursday.
Defender Rikki Newland signed with Arizona Christian University and goalie Josh Jones signed with Texas A&M International University.
“I fell in love with the campus on my first visit,” Newland said. “I like the warm climate. I’ve got family living in Phoenix.”
WTC head women’s coach Fanta Cooper said Newland’s role was leading the defense.
“Rikki’s role has been to shore up the defense,” Cooper said. “She was a leader during her freshman season and it carried over to last season. We had a strong defense with her out there.”
Newland said Cooper helped her the past two years become a better player.
“It’s hard to believe that I’m leaving WTC,” Newland said. “I appreciated every thing coach Cooper did for me. I plan to complete work on a bachelor of arts in business and play two more years of soccer in Arizona.”
Jones started six matches in 2016, recording 34 saves and allowing 11 goals.
“I’ve been told the Heartland Conference was one of the toughest in the country,” Jones said. “I enjoyed the last two years in Texas and wanted to stay in Texas for two more years.”
Jones, a native of England, said he had a positive experience at WTC.
“I met different guys from all over the world and they made me feel welcome,” Jones said. “It has been a good experience. I’m glad that I decided to come to Snyder and Western Texas College.”
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