Laurier's Lagonia signs with Doncaster Rovers Belles

DONCASTER, England - Former Wilfrid Laurier Golden Hawks midfielder Alyssa Lagonia of Kitchener, Ont., has signed her first professional contract with the Doncaster Rovers Belles of the Football Association Women's Soccer League.

Lagonia, the 2011 CIS Player of the Year, had an outstanding four year career with the Golden Hawks where she was a two-time CIS All-Canadian, a four-time OUA All-Star and helped Laurier win the 2010 OUA Championship. She started 56 of the 59 games she dressed for, scoring 17 goals, including five this past season.

Aside from her success with the Golden Hawks, Lagonia has also represented her country at the U20, university and senior levels. She first suited up for Canada at the U20 World Cup in Chile in 2008 and also represented the country this past summer at the FISU Games in China where Canada finished fifth. Lagonia has also made four appearances with the senior team with her debut coming against New Zealand at the Cyprus Cup in 2009.

"Alyssa has got good pedigree and has come through the Canadian national team system. She has great touch and technique and has an eye for a pass," said Belles manager John Buckley in a team release.

"She's a two-footed attacking midfielder and has great quality on the ball," continued Buckley. "I'm looking forward to working with her and I'm convinced that she will be a good addition to the squad."

"I'm excited to be joining the Belles and playing in the UK," commented Lagonia. "None of this would have been possible without the hard work and dedication of the Laurier coaching staff, including Barry MacLean and Niki Budalic, and the entire athletic department."

Lagonia will join the Belles squad immediately in preparation for their Continental Cup tie match against Bristol Academy WFC this Sunday.

Source: Laurier Athletics