Colleges

Nation's top women's soccer player Yamaguchi leaves FSU early for pros

By Brian Landman, Times Staff Writer
Published February 28, 2008

Florida State junior soccer forward Mami Yamaguchi, who won the 2007 Hermann Trophy as the top women's player, will forgo her final year of eligibility and play professionally in Sweden.

"We are thrilled for Mami," coach Mark Krikorian said. "It has been a goal and dream of hers to be a professional soccer player. In a way, I hope that Florida State University has contributed to her success."

The native of Tokyo, who has signed with Umea IK, led FSU to its first national title game appearance last season, tallying 24 goals and 18 assists, both second in the nation. Her 66 points were the most in the nation.

FOOTBALL: Fans interested in tickets to the ACC championship game at Raymond James Stadium on Dec. 6 can submit an application for a lottery. Go to ACCTampaBay.com to apply. Applications for up to eight tickets must be received by April 31. ... LSU coach Les Miles, asked about opening spring practice Friday without suspended quarterback Ryan Perrilloux, responded: "I'd appreciate it if you don't ask me any more questions about him. It's a very serious issue."

TENNIS: The USF women snapped a three-match losing streak, defeating host UCF 6-1. USF won in doubles for the first time since Jan. 25, and freshman Janette Bejlkova improved to 6-0 by defeating Elvira Serott 6-0, 6-3.

Information from Times wires was used in this report.

[Last modified February 27, 2008, 22:13:21]