Three U.S. players – Felicia Schroeder, Liz Ruberry, and Janelle Cordia – have signed with the Finnish club Åland United of Naisten Liiga, the highest division of soccer in Finland. Schroeder played two years at the University of South Carolina (leading goal scorer as a sophomore) before transferring to Purdue University (tied for team lead in goals scored her senior years). She was featured in the December 1, 2010 issue of Our Game (Defying All Odds). She’s a member of the U.S. Deaf National Team.
“I am very excited to hear Åland United is willing to give me a chance. I have heard wonderful things about their club and small-knit community,” Schroeder said. “I cannot wait to get there and get started and continue chasing the dream!”
Ruberry is a defensive midfielder/center back out of the University of Florida. Cordia, a defender who went to the University of Missouri, played for the 2010 USL W-League regular season champions Hudson Valley QuickStrike Lady Blues.
“I have worked with a couple of American players in the past and have been impressed with their attitude and will to win,” Åland United Head Coach Steve Beeks said. “(I) have also had players from the U.S. in the past so signing three American players is a great move for the club. I hope and believe that Elizabeth, Janelle, and Felicia will enjoy their time in Aland and that it will be a successful one for both them and Aland United.”
Beeks said the club’s top-notch facilities will benefit his new players.
“I started here two months ago, and the facilities that we have for the players from the full-size indoor astro, swimming pool, gym, and the Finnish National team’s fitness coach will help the players improve and help us achieve our club goals. I am looking forward to working with them and hope they are as determined and successful as the previous players from the U.S. have been here on Åland.”