Dec. 12, 2000

MILWAUKEE-Former UWM women's soccer player Lisa Krzykowski was selected to the Atlanta Beat in the WUSA draft held on Sunday. The Women's United Soccer Association is the newly-formed women's professional soccer league in the US, and will begin play in April of 2001.

Krzykowski, a member of the Panther squad from 1994-1997, was picked up on the first day of the draft in the seventh round and was the 56th pick overall. She joins no. one draft pick Sun Wen of the Chinese National team, as well as Charmaine Hooper and Marci Miller, both former teammates of Krzykowski's on the Chicago Cobras.

"I didn't expect to get drafted as early as I did," said Kryzkowski. "But to get drafted to a great city with unbelievable players, as well as staying with a couple of my teammates from Chicago, is a dream."

Kryzkowski, whose UWM jersey was recently retired, has played with the Chicago Cobras of the semi-professional WUISL league for the past four years. The Cobras won the league championship in August. Having played in the midfield for the Cobras, she was drafted as a defender for her speed and overall defensive capabilities.

"As of now, I was drafted as a defender, which is kind of where I thought I would be if I did get drafted," said Krzykowski. "Playing on this team, I almost prefer to be on defense."

The Cedarburg, Wis. native played most of her UWM career at the forward position, and ended her illustrious career as UWM's all-time leading scorer with 141 points (57 goals, 27 assists). She holds many school records and has received numerous accolades nation-wide in recognition of her outstanding athletic performances.

Krzykowski is the first woman from Wisconsin to ever play professional soccer.