NAPPANEE — Carlie Salinas, a NorthWood High School junior, has signed to continue her academic and soccer careers at Grace College in Winona Lake, beginning in 2014

Salinas, a 5-foot-7 central defender, was named NorthWood’s defensive MVP and earned first team all-district and all-Northern Lakes Conference honors last fall as coach Phil Ummel’s Panthers went 10-5-3 with eight shutouts.

“After spending time with the coaches and girls, I know this is where God wants me to be to build my platform,” Salinas said. “I always have so much fun with the awesome group of girls Coach (Michael) Voss has brought to play soccer for Christ. I really feel that Grace will be my second home.”

At the club soccer level, Salinas has been a three-year captain for the Indiana Invaders. Her Invaders’ team won the 2011 Indiana Presidents Cup and the Grove United Memorial Day Shootout in 2012 and 2011.

Salinas has been highly involved in her church’s youth group, including international mission trips.

“I am pleased to welcome Carlie to the Grace College Women’s Soccer family. She loves the Lord passionately and desires to see Christ glorified through soccer here in Indiana and throughout the world,” said Grace head coach Michael Voss. “Carlie is a super tough defender who will make our program and defense better immediately through her character, work ethic and communication. Carlie will fit right in with these women who love the Lord and desire to ball it up.”



NorthWood High School junior Carlie Salinas (middle, first row) signs to play soccer at Grace College. She is between parents Janelle and Carl Salinas. Back row (from left): Indiana Invaders coach Brent Barrow, Grace head coach Michael Voss and NorthWood head coach Phil Ummel. (Photo Supplied)