MINNEAPOLIS -- Minnesota women's soccer head coach Mikki Denney Wright has announced that Alex Pafko has signed an Acceptance of Admission and will join a 2011 Gophers squad coming off its second NCAA Sweet 16 appearance in the last three years. The Blaine, Minn., native has spent the last three seasons at St. Cloud State.
"We are thrilled that Alex has decided to conclude her college career as a member of the Gopher Soccer Family," Denney Wright said. "Alex has excelled at every level of play, and we look forward to seeing what she can do next season here at Minnesota."
In 2010, Pafko led the Huskies offense with 22 points (10 goals, two assists) in 19 games and was named All-NSIC First Team for the second-straight year. The forward ranks first in St. Cloud State history in both game winning-goals with 11 and shots on goal with 72. Her 59 career points and 22 career goals both rank third all-time with the program while Pafko ranks fourth in school history with 14 career assists. Pafko was also a two-time all-region selection and was twice named St. Cloud State's Most Valuable Player.
"The University of Minnesota is a program that I feel will prepare me for success on and off the field. Along with a great soccer program, the school also has an excellent business program," Pafko said. "It has always been my dream to play soccer for my home state, and I want to help bring a championship to the University of Minnesota."
Pafko was a three-sport captain at Blaine High School, graduating in 2007. With Blaine's soccer team, Pafko was a three-time all-conference honoree and received all-state accolades in 2007 with an honorable mention in 2006. Also a member of the school's track and basketball teams, Pafko collected 11 total letters in her high school career and was a four-time all-conference honoree in track. Also a member of the North Metro Fusion club team, Pafko was on roster for the 2007 U-17 All-American Cup Championship team, two Minnesota Premier League Championship teams and two Minnesota State Cup finalists.
