Athletica's Amanda Cinalli and Sara Larsson Selected in WPS Expansion Draft

ST. LOUIS (September 15, 2009) – Saint Louis Athletica Head Coach and General Manager Jorge Barcellos announced today that Athletica midfielder Amanda Cinalli and defender Sara Larsson were selected by the Atlanta Beat in the WPS Expansion Draft. Atlanta, along with the Philadelphia Independence will begin play in the WPS in 2010.

“We are very sad to lose two players of this caliber,” said Barcellos. “But at the same time we are happy that these players will get the chance to have a big role with their new clubs. The fact that they have been selected by new teams that are just starting out speaks to just how good and how valued these two individuals are.”

Amanda Cinalli, a University of Notre Dame graduate, was selected by Saint Louis in the fall of 2008 in the WPS General Player Draft with the 26th pick. In her one year with Athletica Cinalli scored two goals, both game-winners, and notched one assist while starting 12 games. Cinalli suffered a knee injury on the eve of the season opener that sidelined her until June 7. Cinalli needed just 15 minutes to score during her debut match against eventual WPS Champions Sky Blue FC. Cinalli also notched the game-winner in a 1-0 July 8 win at Los Angeles. In the playoffs Cinalli started and played a full 90 minutes in the WPS Super Semifinal on August 19.

“When I first heard Atlanta selected me I was surprised and excited as well,” said Cinalli. “I loved my time with Saint Louis Athletica. The team was unbelievably close and so much fun. I will still think of all of them as my sisters. I am so appreciative of all Saint Louis did for me on and off the field but I am also excited for the success of the WPS and the introduction of these expansion teams.”

Sara Larsson played in 15 games for Athletica in the defensive line registering 1,047 minutes of playing time. Larsson was used mostly as a center back but occasionally played the role of defensive midfielder. Larsson had no goals, no assists, and was booked for two yellow cards during the season. Larsson has appeared in the World Cup and in the Olympics for her native Sweden. Saint Louis Athletica originally selected Larsson in the fall of 2008 during the WPS International Player Draft.

Saint Louis Athletica finished the 2009 campaign as runners-up to the regular season crown and reached the WPS Super Semifinal. 2010 Season tickets for Saint Louis Athletica can be purchased now by visiting www.saintlouisathletica.com or call 1-888-STL-Goal.