Duffy Inks 7 in 1st Recruiting Class

Head women's lacrosse coach Julie Duffy announced the signing of seven student-athletes in her first recruiting class at The University of Findlay on Friday, December 2.

Kayla Jones, Olivia Porcaro, Sarah Lankton, Taylor Trice, Mackenzie Harper, Jessica Rice and Lexus Renner will also compete for the Oilers during the 2012-13 campaign.

"The success of this program and its legacy will begin with these seven ladies and I could not ask for a more talented or committed group," said Duffy.  "These individuals will serve as the foundation of our program as we work towards becoming one of the best programs in the conference."

Jones, a goalie from Bartram Trail High School in St. Augustine, Florida, has recorded a 52 percent save percentage during her prep career.  A team MVP, Jones has also served on her high school presidents' council.

"Kayla has quick hands and does a great job of communicating on the field," said Duffy.  "She is going to be a solid player for us and will immediately contribute to our defensive success."

Porcaro, an attacker from Aspen High School in Snowmass Village, Colorado, has been named first team all-conference in each of the past two seasons.  Aspen's leading scorer since her freshman year, Porcaro has served as team captain two years running.

"Olivia has a solid stick and a quick first step, which will add an element of excitement to our offense," said Duffy.  "She is going to be tough to stop when she heads towards the goal."

Lankton, a midfielder from Carmel, Indiana, was a first team all-Indiana pick during her junior year at Guerin Catholic High School.  She led the state of Indiana in scoring during her junior campaign and was tabbed an academic all-American selection as well.

"Sarah has a deadly accurate shot and shows no fear when attacking the defense," said Duffy.  "She will be pivotal key in helping us transition into attack."

Trice, a midfielder from Ballard High School in Louisville, Kentucky, was named all-Kentucky after her sophomore year.  She also captured Player of the Tournament honors at the Indian Prairie Showcase in 2011.

"Taylor has a unique ability to see the whole field and what is developing around her," said Duffy.  "She will add a great element of experience to our defensive side and will help us move the ball through the midfield."

Harper, a defender from Hamilton Southeastern High School in Fishers, Indiana, was named first team all-Indiana as a junior.  She has also earned all-region honors twice during her career.

"Mackenzie is the only true defender in our first recruiting class," said Duffy.  "She has stellar communication skills and a great deal of experience."

Rice, an attacker from Hilliard Darby High School in Hilliard, Ohio, scored 37 goals for the Panthers.  She also plays for the Midwestern Force Lacrosse Club Team and has been a four-year player at Darby.

"Jessica has an outstanding work ethic and will be able to challenge her teammates on a daily basis," said Duffy.  "She is a talented scorer who will help others on the offensive end of the field."

Renner, a goalie from Auburn Township, Ohio, racked up over 700 minutes in the net for Kenston High School.  She too is also a member of the Midwestern Force Lacrosse Club Team.

"Lexus is a great communicator who guides her defense into forcing opponents into tough shots," said Duffy.  "She brings a great deal of competitive experience to our team and the willingness to do whatever it takes to be successful."