Longtime defensive standout Katy Kniola from Michigan City, Indiana, signed a letter of intent to accept a soccer scholarship at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College.
Kniola, a four-year starter at Michigan City High School, served as captain during her junior and senior years. She earned defensive most valuable player honors in 2011 and honorable mention in the Post-Tribune, a Chicago Sun-Times publication, all-area selections. Most recently, she was chosen to represent northern Indiana in the Indiana Elite All-Star Showcase. She has had equal success in premier club play for Northwest Indiana United, making it to the State Cup finals and winning the Best of the Midwest Tournament. Her athleticism and technical ability as a defensive player make her a prime college prospect.
Kniola also brings many of the service and citizenship qualities that are highly prized at The Woods. As a person who loves working with children, particularly those with physical disabilities, she has volunteered with Special Olympics and Angels in the Outfield.
Coach Mike Aycock sees Kniola as a key ingredient for a new Pomeroy side. “Katy brings us a second powerful player to play centrally in the back,” said Aycock. “She will complement our other players beautifully and will make us better. I am confident that her ability to win balls, defend excellent attacking players and build from the back will change what we can do in our half of the field. We’re delighted to have her.”