Pali Blues News Release - www.bluessoccerclub.com

Tuesday, February 26, 2008

PACIFIC PALISADES, CA -- The Pali Blues Soccer Club are seemingly set at the goalkeeper position, announcing today the signings of former youth internationals Karen Bardsley and Valerie Henderson. The duo looks to backstop the club this year in its inaugural season in the USL W-League.

“We are pleased to have two fantastic keepers that will challenge each other,” Blues head coach Charlie Naimo stated. “Both have international experience and possess leadership qualities to help guide our team defensively.”

Bardsley is one of two American-born players of English heritage to be invited to the England Women’s U-19 International Training Camp. The Chino Hills native was selected to the squad for the 2004 UEFA Women’s U-19 Championships in Leipzig, Germany, helping guide England to the semifinals after playing all 360 minutes in net. She also had a stellar career at Cal State-Fullerton and was named the Big West Conference Goalkeeper of the Year three times (2004, 2005 and 2006).

Henderson also brings national team experience to the Blues. The UCLA product competed with the US National Team at the 2006 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Championships in Russia and was named the Sierra Mist Woman of the Match after registering nine saves and earning a shutout in a 1-0 win over France. The former NSCAA/adidas All-American finished her collegiate career with 76 wins in goal for the Bruins.

The Pali Blues Soccer Club will play the first game of their inaugural USL W-League season on the road against the Ventura County Fusion on Saturday, May 10. The following weekend, the Blues will play their inaugural home contest at the “Stadium by the Sea” when they host the Los Angeles Legends on Saturday, May 17. Tickets for home match ups are only $10 for adults ($8 with student ID) and $5 for kids under the age of 12. Stay tuned to the team website at www.bluessoccerclub.com for all updates regarding the Blues.