Aug. 20, 2002

Columbia, Mo.-The University of Missouri women's soccer program looks to kick off the 2002 season with an exhibition match against Michigan. The Tigers' first match of the year is scheduled for Sun., Aug. 25 at 1:00 p.m., at the Chaminade High School field in St. Louis, Mo.

Beginning the year with a fifth-place ranking in the 2002 Big 12 Preseason Coaches' Poll, Mizzou is poised to once again be a top contender in the rugged conference. The Tigers return all-conference forward Adriene Davis and Big 12 all-tournament goalkeeper Megan Duncan to the 2002 squad.

The Tigers begin regular season play hosting the Nike Tiger Invitational Aug. 31-Sept. 1, in Columbia, Mo. Mizzou welcomes Kentucky, Indiana and Illinois to the four-team tournament. Games begin at 5:00 and 7:00 p.m., both nights. Missouri is scheduled to take on Illinois Friday and Indiana on Sunday. Both Mizzou games will begin at 7:00 p.m.

In conjunction with the Tigers' opening stanza, the Missouri soccer team welcomes members of the media to its annual Soccer Media Day Wed., Aug. 28 at 8:30 a.m. Coaches and players will be available for interviews following practice. Photographers are welcome to shoot the tail end of practice from 8:00-8:30 a.m.

Please contact Assistant Media Relations Director Whitney Vernieuw at (573) 882-2531 to RSVP.

In addition, media representatives desiring credentials to the 2002 Missouri soccer season need to submit a request in writing via fax at (573) 882-4720 or via email to vernieuww@missouri.edu. Press passes will be available at media day on Aug. 28 or at the west ticket office on game day.