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Courtney Almendinger
Midfield, 5-6
Sioux Falls, S.D./Roosevelt H.S.
Dakota Alliance
Why Augustana?
“The smaller campus and class sizes were a big reason I chose Augustana. I also get along really well with the coaching staff and after my campus visit and meeting the team I realized Augustana was the perfect fit for me.”
Accomplishments
2014 graduate of Roosevelt High School in Sioux Falls, S.D. … four-year letterwinner … three-year starter … two-time state champion … first team All-State Academic Excellence Award … part of a Roosevelt team that went 13-0-0 senior year … named Most Valuable Player senior season … coached by Clay Glasgow.
Club
Played for Dakota Alliance from 2009-14 … won the 2013 State Cup … runner up in State Cup in 2012 and 2011 … member of the Dakota Gold Soccer Club from 2007-2009.
Personal
Daughter of Daughter of Randy and Nancy … has younger sister Brooke … born March 9, 1996 … planning to major in athletic training.
What they're saying about Courtney
“I have had the privilege of coaching Courtney since her freshman year at Roosevelt High school. Last year, her teammate’s unquestionably named her as one of the team captains. She is at the forefront of what a student-athlete should be: Very disciplined, constantly looking for ways to make the people around her better, a player coaches only dream of having. Very purpose driven and possesses a very high level of dedication. Extremely passionate, has earned the respect from her teammates, and other coaches by showing a determination to complete the job and playing with an immense amount of heart. Courtney will definitely be an asset to the Augustana women’s soccer program and the institution.” – Coach Clay Glasgow
Barkus on Courtney
"Courtney is a magician with the ball at her feet and composed in front of the goal. She has the ability to lull defenders to sleep in one instant then explode beyond them the next. She can strike a ball very well and I think it will be fun to see how she will orchestrate our offense. She’s an incredible all-around athlete and will be a great player here at Augustana. She is a great role model for others because of her work ethic and commitment to the game. I am really excited to watch her succeed at Augustana!" |
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Samantha Arnold
Forward, 5-1
Council Bluffs, Iowa/Thomas Jefferson H.S.
JUSC
Why Augustana?
“I chose Augustana because when I was being recruited for soccer, I loved how fun and relaxed Coach Barkus was and enjoyed the girls I had met. I loved how the campus was right in the middle of the community, as well as the few classes I was able to sit in on. I had a pleasant time being there with the relaxed feeling and beautiful campus.”
Accomplishments
2014 graduate of Thomas Jefferson High School in Council Bluffs, Iowa … three-year starter and letterwinner … three-time All-State first team selection … named to All-City team three times … three-time All-Conference selection … received Golden Foot award during junior season of 2013 … scored a school-record 34 goals as a junior … has scored 72 goals in career … will play senior season in spring of 2014 … coached by Mark Royer.
Club
Played for JUSC/WDM ... 2012 State Cup runner up … member of the Iowa Olympic Development Team that was coached by John “Shedzy” Sheridan for two years … attended Regional Camp in 2012-13 … Region 2 camp tournament runner ups in 2012.
Personal
Daughter of Daughter of Russell and Jenny Arnold … has four sisters (Alison, Carly, Mackinzey, Natalie) … born April 8, 1996 … planned major in biology and spanish.
What they're saying about Samantha
“Sam is an extremely hard working individual both on and off the field. With sound technical ability and an eye for scoring goals, I feel Sam will be a great asset to the Viking soccer program and school.” – Coach John “Shedzy” Sheridan
Barkus on Samantha
Sam has the potential to be one of the most impactful players we have recruited in my time here at Augustana. She is creative, tough, highly skilled, and incredibly motivated. She is an imaginative attacking front runner. Her speed and explosiveness is something I think our fans are going to enjoy next season. She should jump in right away and fit in well with our group of players. I think she can be an important piece for us as we continue to build on the success we had last year. |
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Defender, 5-10
Sergeant Bluff, Iowa/Bishop Heelan H.S.
Tri-State Revolution
“I chose Augustana to get a great education while also playing soccer at a competitive level. The soccer team is like a second family, and I would like to be a part of that. All in all, Augustana was a college that I would fit perfectly into and I look forward to be joining the community.”
Accomplishments
2014 graduate of Bishop Heelan High School in Sioux City, Iowa … three-year letterwinner … two-year starter … part of a Bishop team that was a two-time state runner-up in 2013 and 2012 in Class 1A … scored two goals during junior season … recorded four goals during sophomore season, as well as two assists … will play senior season in spring of 2014 … coached by Shawn Mansfield.
Played for Tri-State Revolution in Sioux City, Iowa in 2013 … played for Dakota Alliance in Sioux Falls, S.D. in 2013 … had a record of 9-6-3 with Revolution in lone season … recorded nine shutouts during season … played for Gateway City in Sioux City, Iowa from 2008 to 2013 … went 21-4-3 in 2012 … Nebraska Soccer League U17 Premier Division Champions in 2012 … part of a defensive line that recorded 14 shutouts in 2012 … coached by Gabe Wortman.
Personal
Daughter of Greg and Shantelle Bleeker … oldest of five siblings … born March 10, 1996 … undecided on major.
What they're saying about Brooke
“A great deal of the success we had as a club team over the past couple years can be linked to the development of Brooke as a player. Her work ethic, mental toughness and strong character make her valuable on and off the pitch. I know that I can trust Brooke to do the right thing both on and off the field, which is one of the many reasons I know I can rely on her to lead the team. She is reliable, selfless, tough, honest and most of all she puts the needs of her team ahead of her own.” – Coach Gabe Wortman
Barkus on Brooke
"Brooke is a talented back with a good feel for the game. Her work ethic and determination make her an asset for us in the back. Brooke can be one of the best defenders in the conference, due to the versatility and athleticism she brings. She is terrific in 1v1 situations and looks to be aggressive going forward. Her overall improvement and growth these past couple of years has us excited."
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Hannah Keirstead
Defender/Midfield, 5-3
Savage, Minn./Burnsville H.S.
Dakota Rev Rampage
Why Augustana?
“I chose Augustana over the other colleges I considered because when I took my visit there the people and campus made me really feel at home. There was a perfect balance between student life, academics, faith, and sports. Everyone seemed very genuine and respectful, and I felt I would be challenged academically, and athletically, but supported by the Augustana community. I am looking forward to starting in the fall of 2014 as a new Viking!”
Accomplishments
2014 graduate of Burnsville High School in Burnsville, Minn. … Named team captain for senior season in 2013 … three-year letterwinner and starter … three-time South Suburban All-Conference selection … Class 2A All-State first team honoree in 2013 … member of All-Tournament team senior season … scored five goals and tallied five assists in 2013 … two-time defensive MVP … conference and regional champions senior year … Class 2A state semi-finalist as a senior … second team All-State selection in 2012 … notched 11 goals in 2012 … helped Burnsville to state runner-up in fall of 2011 in Class 2A.
Club
Member of the Dakota Rev Rampage U18 Premier … state runner-up in 2013.
Personal
Daughter of Brett and Amy Keirstead … born July 25, 1996 … has two younger siblings named Morgan and Eli … planning to major in math with a minor in psychology … 2012-13 National Honors Society member.
What they're saying about Hannah
“One of the attributes that makes Hannah standout is her versatility – she has the ability to seamlessly switch between offensive and defensive positions making her a strong national competitor and contributor to her club team. Hannah’s understanding of the game in combination with her soccer skills and “team-first” approach will make her a great asset to Augustana.” – Coach Tobi Thorsell
Barkus on Hannah
"Hannah is a tremendously talented defender who will mix it up with anyone on the field, closes space deceptively fast and shows no fear. Hannah is such a great young women and is consistently putting forth maximum effort as an example to her teammates. She understands the value of individual effort and sacrifice and the importance of humility and teamwork. Hannah reads the game as well as anyone I’ve seen. Her knowledge, combined with her athleticism and ability in the air, will help her to step into the college game right away." |
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Ellie Knowles
Midfield/Forward, 5-8
Chaska, Minn./Chaska H.S.
Eden Prairie Fusion
Why Augustana?
“I chose Augustana because I was looking for an academically challenging school in the Midwest with a soccer team that I could become a part of. I liked the city of Sioux Falls because of the thriving community. I had a great feel about the school when I visited campus and between the coaches and the team. It's a perfect fit for me.”
Accomplishments
2014 graduate of Chaska High School in Chaska, Minn. … four-year starter and letterwinner … All-Conference selection as a senior … team finished as conference runner-up senior year … scored four goals senior season … notched seven assists during senior year … coached by Pat Prindle
Club
Played for the Eden Prairie Fusion U17/18 team … State Cup semi-finalist … placed third in league standings … also played for the Minnesota Thunder Academy U16 Blue Premier team coached by Ben Gaddis.
Personal
Daughter of Daughter of Tim and Julie Knowles … has two older brothers Andrew and Matthew … born April 23, 1996 … undecided major.
What they're saying about Ellie
“Ellie Knowles is a one-of-a-kind student-athlete. She has the dedication and leadership that every coach desires from an athlete, from her leadership in the classroom to her leadership on the field. Ellie has truly been a role model and blessing to the Chaska High School Soccer program. Thank you Ellie for your leadership, and good luck to you and the Vikings!” – Coach Patrick Prindle
Barkus on Ellie
"Ellie is a very technical and creative attacking player. She is quick and agile on the ball and has the ability to step in and play in any of our attacking positions. She is a true student of the game and will fit in well at Augustana. Ellie is a tenacious player, with incredible work ethic and leadership ability. Her competitiveness will only will be an asset to our team and we are confident she will have a great career." |
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Taylor Machacek
Goalkeeper, 5-7
Sioux Falls, S.D./Roosevelt H.S.
Dakota Alliance
Why Augustana?
“The campus was very attractive and felt very comfortable. The areas of study I am interested in are available at Augustana, and I know that the school has a high job-placement rate for graduates. I spent a lot of time with the team and they were great to hang out with. I am very excited to start this new chapter in my life.”
Accomplishments
2014 graduate of Roosevelt High School in Sioux Falls, S.D. … four-year starter and letterwinner … two-time All-State first team selection … two-time state champion in 2012 and 2013 … named team captain senior season … part of a Roosevelt team that went 13-0-0 senior year … allowed only three goals in 2013 … allowed only four goals on way to 11-0-2 record in 2012 … second team All-State in 2011 … recorded 10 shutouts during sophomore season … All-State honorable mention freshman year … made a state semi-finals appearance with team freshman year in 2010.
Club
Member of Dakota Alliance Soccer Club since 2009 ... selected to participate in Olympic Development Program in South Dakota from 2009-2011 … coached by Robbie Miller, Gabe Wortman, and Ginger Parsons … played in 2010 REAL Cup and won division … member of Nebraska Olympic Development Team that went to Germany and won consolation bracket at the Vildberg Cup … coached by Joe Rauth.
Personal
Daughter of Chad and Kiersta Machacek … has a younger brother named Tanner … born January 28, 1996 … planning on majoring in occupational therapy or special education.
What they're saying about Taylor
“I’ve coached Taylor since her freshman year at Roosevelt High school. Taylor was also named one of team captains. Very reliable, committed to the task ahead, never-say-die attitude, an individual who just does not settle on being average. She pursues everything with a great sense of purpose and a high level of dedication. She is very focused in the classroom, which only serves to demonstrate her strengths of prioritizing and working diligently. In my humble opinion, Taylor is one of best goalkeepers that I’ve come across in my coaching career. Fantastic fit for Augustana College.” – Coach Clay Glasgow
Barkus on Taylor
"Taylor has all the tools to develop into an incredible goalkeeper. She is a student of the game who is constantly searching for the means to develop her game. Taylor brings a positive attitude to the field every day. She has a tremendous work ethic, excellent foot skills, and is technically sound. Taylor adds to our list of South Dakota keepers and the tradition of excellence they brought to Augustana. She has a team-first mentality. I love her work ethic, determination, and her desire to make an impact in our program immediately." |
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Mackenzie Main
Midfield, 5-3
West Des Moines, Iowa/Valley H.S.
JUSC
Why Augustana?
“I chose Augustana because I really liked the campus and the girls’ soccer team was really welcoming. I just liked how close knit everyone was and I'm really happy with my decision.”
Accomplishments
2014 graduate of Valley High School in Des Moines, Iowa … two-year letterwinner and starter junior season … named team captain prior to start of senior season … named All-CIC second team during junior campaign … three-time Academic All-Conference selection … reached State Cup semifinals in 2011 ... coached by Rob Chapman.
Club
Current JUSC member ... tournament finalist in 2012 … former West Des Moines Soccer Club member … coached by John "Shedzy" Sheridan ... Captain of Vision Soccer Academy team for two years that was coached by Kevin Schalk … HIT tournament winners in 2012 … state cup finalist in 2012 … participated in 2012 Gothia Cup in Sweden ... 2012 Just for Girls Champions ... Played in MRL league from 2011-13 ... member of ODP in 2011-12.
Personal
Daughter of Matt and Deanne Main … has older sister Amanda … born November 7, 1995 … undecided major.
What they're saying about Mackenzie
“I have been fortunate to work as both Mackenzie’s club and ODP coach. During that time Mackenzie has always displayed a fantastic work ethic in training, during games, and in the classroom. A versatile player who can play in midfield and as a forward, Mackenzie will be a great addition as a student -athlete.” - Coach John "Shedzy" Sheridan
Barkus on Mackenzie
"A terrific team player, Mackenzie is a driven and passionate athlete who strives to play her best game every time she step on the field. She is athletic, and has all the tools to excel at this level. Her technique is tremendous, and her willingness to fight will raise our level of play in practice every day." |
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Kaylie Miller
Defender, 5-9
Muscatine, Iowa/Muscatine H.S.
Why Augustana?
“I chose Augustana because everything from the campus to the soccer team feels like a great fit for me. I really like the size of the campus, what the city of Sioux Falls has to offer, and everyone associated with the soccer team has made me feel very welcomed!”
Accomplishments
2014 graduate of Muscatine High School in Muscatine, Iowa … Three-year starter and letterwinner … two-time Best Defensive Player on the team honoree … All-Academic team … team ranked in top 10 in class 3A all season … helped team finish to a 12-5 record in 2013 … team finished 11-6 in 2012 … will begin senior season in spring of 2014 … also played varsity basketball and varsity volleyball … coached by Bob Estabrook.
Club
Member of the Muscatine U18 Soccer club from 2010 -2012 … took first place at the Muscatine Summer Classic … coached by Tom Walgren.
Personal
Daughter of Jeff and Sally Miller … has two siblings Cole and Paige … born October 1, 1995 … undecided on major.
What they are saying about Kaylie
“Kaylie is a very well-rounded athlete starring in several sports on very good teams. Kaylie will be a four-year starter in soccer this spring, We have lined Kaylie up on our outside left defensively to counter what is usually the other teams strongest attackers. Kaylie is also frequently joining our attack where we have found her lethal in the air. She will be a captain this spring, and always leads the team in practice with effort and skill.” – Coach Bob Estabrook
Barkus on Kaylie
"I am very excited about Kaylie and the intensity and enthusiasm she will bring. Some of her best traits are her speed and physical play. Her ability to make sound decisions under pressure, solid technical skills, and a commitment to team will no doubt be an asset to our program. Kaylie’s multi-sport background will pay dividends for us, allowing her to showcase her athleticism." |
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Kallie Nordberg
Midfield/Forward, 5-6
Big Lake, Minn./Big Lake H.S.
North Metro
Why Augustana?
“I chose Augustana because I want to be pushed academically, athletically, and spiritually while I’m at college. I believe that being a Viking will help me achieve all three of those goals!”
Accomplishments
Played for Big Lake High School in Big Lake, Minn. … four-year starter and letterwinner … named to Mississippi 8 All-Conference team on three occasions … selected as team MVP during junior and senior season … set single record for goals scored in a season with 21 in 2013 … set career record for goals scored with 63 at Big Lake … participant of Minnesota Senior Classic All-Star game … netted 17 goals and dished out four assists during junior season … notched 18 goals in 2011 … coached by Michael Turner.
Club
Played for North Metro U19/17 Premier in 2014 and 2013 … Schwan’s Cup semi-finalist in 2013 … scored eight goals and tallied three assists on in 2013 … coached by Mike Friendt … member of TRSA club from 2008 to 2012.
Personal
Daughter of Dave and Pam Nordberg… has three other siblings … born August 22, 1995 … planned major either nursing or double major of exercise science and psychology.
What they're saying about Kallie
“Kallie is a remarkable young athlete, and one of the strongest persons of character that I have had the pleasure of coaching. She is a smart and flexible player that works very hard on and off of the field. Kallie leads by example every day, and has been very important to our success. I could really gush about her all day. What a great student and person you will have in your program.” – Coach Mike Friendt
Barkus on Kallie
"Kallie is a natural leader. The physical nature of her game and her work ethic are qualities will make her one of our more versatile players, and allow her to challenge for a spot in multiple positions. She is a gifted athlete, and a true competitor. I’m really excited about Kallie, and am confident that she will be a great player for us." |
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Samantha Tymkowicz
Midfield/Forward, 5-4
Sioux City Iowa/Bishop Heelan H.S.
Tri-State Revolution
Why Augustana?
“I decided to come to Augustana because it was everything that I was looking for in a college. I loved the energy and personality of the team and the coaches. The school was great, and I liked the campus. Also, Augustana isn't too far from home so it just seemed like the perfect fit for me.”
Accomplishments
2014 graduate of Bishop Heelan High School in Sioux City, Iowa … three-year starter and letterwinner … part of a Bishop team that was a two-time state runner-up in 2013 and 2012 in Class 1A … two-time district champions (2012 and 2013) … two time All-State selection … named to All-Tournament first team twice … two-time All-Conference selection … team-leading 19 goals and 18 assists during junior season … recorded 22 goals and nine assists during sophomore campaign … will play senior season in spring of 2014 … coached by Shawn Mansfield.
Club
Played for Tri-State Revolution U18 team during senior year … scored four goals … tallied three assists … named team captain … member of the Sioux City Strikers U17 squad junior year … was top goal scorer with 20 goals … won Heartland Invitational Tournament … finalist in the Eden Prairie Cup … was team captain … winger on Gateway City Blue U18 team as a sophomore … JUSC champions … CSA champions … netted team-leading 20 goals … dished out 12 assists … coached by Gabe Wortman
Personal
Daughter of Shane and Beth Tymkowicz … youngest of two siblings … born November 20, 1995 … planned major either nursing or biology.
What they're saying about Samantha
“Sam is one of the most gifted and talented offensive players Sioux City has ever produced. She has a tremendous work ethic which complements the tremendous speed, explosive, and technical ability she has been blessed with. She is consistently one of the most dangerous players on the field, creating chances for herself and her teammates. Augustana picked up a terrific person who will excel not only on the field, but off it as well.” – Coach Gabe Wortman
Barkus on Samantha
"Sam’s athleticism and attitude are absolutely exceptional. Her work ethic and positivity will have an immediate impact on our program. She will be valuable to us, and will definitely be dangerous on both sides of the field. She has a tremendous shooting ability. She enjoys taking on players and strikes the ball well with both feet. Sam brings an edge to our frontline and can do a number of different things for us." |