Mutiny Bring Back Record 20 Players

UConn's Schnur, BC's Maurer Among Returnees

March 12, 2008

The WPSL’s New England Mutiny have resigned 20 of 21 players from last year, the most ever returnees in the 10-year history of the Women’s Professional Soccer League.

The one exception is UConn’s Stephanie Labbe, the reigning East Goalkeeper of the Year and All-WPSL First Team selection, who has been selected to represent Canada at the Olympics in Bejing, China this summer. Aside from all of the players, each of the Mutiny's five coaches (Tony Horta, Sam Lopes, Chris Legates, Manny Oliveira and James Luis) will return to the sidelines this summer as well.

Jenny Maurer is one of a record-setting 20 players returning to the Mutiny this season.

"It is remarkable that everyone is returning except for Steph and we are happy for her as she will represent her country - the highest achievement in the sport," said Mutiny owner Joe Ferrara. "This is a testament to the bond that these players and coaches have with each other and the organization. This group is a team in every sense of the word. They have reinvigorated me as a franchise owner."

Returning to the team for her fifth season will be Meghan Schnur, a 2007 First Team National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) All-American at UConn who has also been representing the United States as a member of the U-23 National Team. The 2007 All-WPSL First Team honoree was also nominated for College Player of the Year last fall. Jenny Maurer - who joined the Mutiny for the stretch run last season - will also be playing in her fifth full season.

The East Longmeadow native and former U-21 USWNT member captained Boston College to their highest ranking ever in 2007. Both players are also former East Conference MVP selections.

On board for their fourth season will be co-captains Mary-Frances Monroe (current University at Albany head coach) and 2007 All-WPSL Third Team selection Erin "Grady" Gatto (formerly O'Grady). The two veterans from the former Women's United Soccer Association (WUSA) add their much-needed professional experience. Defender Jessica Diakun (UConn - Glastonbury, CT) will also sail on her fourth voyage for the Mutiny.

The No. 17-internationally ranked Mutiny will battle in the slightly-revamped North Division of the Eastern Conference against the Adirondack Lynx, Boston Aztec, Maine Tide, Massachusetts Stingers, New York AC and SoccerPlus Connecticut Reds this season. Visit their official website at www.mutinysoccer.com for all the latest news & information.