KU Soccer Standout Berry Drafted by FC Kansas City

Jan. 18, 2013

LAWRENCE, Kan. – Kansas senior midfielder Whitney Berry has been selected with the third pick in the third round of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) draft by FC Kansas City Friday morning. The 19th overall pick, Berry is the second Jayhawk to be drafted by a professional team in the United States.

“I’m pumped for Whitney,” said Kansas head coach Mark Francis. “It’s something she’s wanted since day one and I had no doubt in my mind she’d be able to play at the next level. She has worked really hard and has become such a well-rounded player. It’s great to see that pay off.”

A four-year starter for the Jayhawks, Berry had an outstanding senior campaign in which she led the team with seven assists and chipped in six goals. Her seven helpers were the second-most in the Big 12 on the year. The Wichita, Kan., native ended her career as KU’s career-leader in assists (32), No. 2 in career points (78) and tied for third-most all-time with her 23 goals. She was also No. 2 on the school charts in shots, amassing 267 during her four-year career.

She was a two-time National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) All-Central Region selection in her Jayhawk career, including a first team honoree this year. The senior was also named an All-Big 12 First Team selection this past year and was honored on the Academic All-Big 12 team in 2011.

“I’m so excited,” said Berry after hearing the news. “It’s one of those things when you’re five-years-old and someone asks you, ‘what do you want to do when you grow up?’ and I would always tell them I want to play soccer. It’s just exciting and I’m just ready to get out there and start playing.”

The 2013 season will be the NWSL’s inaugural year. The season is slated to begin at the end of March or beginning of April. FC Kansas City has yet to release where home matches will be played.

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