Archives Blog

Lady Rangers "car hop" at Sonic

Allan Scarabello — Sat, 21 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMT

ALVA, Okla. - The Northwestern Oklahoma State University soccer team spent its afternoon "car hopping" at the Sonic in Alva on Friday.

Head coach Kasey Mahaffey's team worked from 1:30-7 p.m. at the fast food restaurant.

All tips and donations will go toward new uniforms and equipment for next season.

The first-year head coach has the girls active in the community. Earlier in the week, the team played games with the residents of the Homestead Retirement Center in Alva.

Next week (Saturday, April 28), the squad will have a second stint at Sonic. The team will work from 10 a.m.- 5 p.m.

Lady Rangers soccer to work at Sonic twice in April

Allan Scarabello — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 05:00:00 GMT

ALVA, Okla. - The Northwestern Oklahoma State University soccer team will be working at Sonic on Friday, April 20 and Saturday, April 28 in an effort to raise money for the upcoming season.

The team will work from 1:30-7 p.m. on Friday the 20th and from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. on Saturday the 28th. The team will be delivering food to cars along with fulfilling other responsibilities

All tips and donations will go toward new uniforms and equipment for next season.

Head coach Kasey Mahaffey and her squad are working hard to build a successful program and appreciate any support from the surrounding community.

Kasey Mahaffey hired as head women's soccer coach

Allan Scarabello — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 06:00:00 GMT

ALVA, Okla. - Northwestern Oklahoma State University and Athletic Director Andy Carter are pleased to introduce Kasey Mahaffey as the second ever head coach of the women's soccer program.

"I would like to thank Andy Carter for giving me the opportunity to take over this program," Mahaffey said. "I am excited to get things going. I am honored to be a part of the NWOSU family."

Mahaffey comes to NWOSU after being an assistant soccer coach at East Central University since August of 2009. During her time time at East Central, the players she recruited helped lead ECU to the Great American Conference regular season and tournament titles this past season. While in Ada, Mahaffey assisted head coach Riley Bailey with both the business and athletic side of the game.

Mahaffey brings excellent playing experience to the job. She led the University of Central Oklahoma to the NCAA Division II Sweet 16 in 2007 and was named First Team Mid-West Region that same season. She was twice named to the Lone Star Conference's First Team while leading the Lone Star in assists both seasons.

Prior to her time at the University of Central Oklahoma, Mahaffey played at Drury while it was still a Division I soccer program. While there she was named to the Missouri Valley Conference All-Freshman Team in 2003 and won the Golden Boot Award for being Drury's season points leader in 2004.

She spent a summer as a soccer camp instructor at Drury.

Mahaffey earned her bachelor's and master's degrees from the University of Central Oklahoma. She earned a bachelor's degree in general studies with an emphasis in exercise and sport science and a master's degree in education with an emphasis in health and physical education.

Inaugural women's soccer coach Steve Barrows resigns

Allan Scarabello — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 06:00:00 GMT

ALVA, Okla. - The coach credited with starting the women’s soccer program at Northwestern Oklahoma State university is stepping down.

Steve Barrows, who became the school's inaugural head coach when the program began in 2000, submitted his resignation at the end of the 2011 fall semester. The University is currently conducting a search for his replacement.

"I greatly enjoyed my time at Northwestern,” Barrows said. “I took great honor in representing the players that played for me. I thoroughly enjoyed working for Dr. (Chandler) Mead as a teacher and the athletic directors that we had."

In 1999, Northwestern made the commitment to add to new women’s sports – soccer and softball. In Barrows, the school found a coach with a wealth of knowledge and a love for the university and community.

"Coach Barrows built this program from inception to its present day status," Athletic Director Andy Carter said. "His hard work and dedication will forever be remembered and appreciated by the University. Steve is a high-character individual whose teams represented the university and the town of Alva very well."

Barrows compiled an 82-112-8 record in his 11 seasons. In 2001, just one season after becoming head coach, Barrows led the program’s transition into the powerful Sooner Athletic Conference.

Undaunted, the Rangers sent a message to the league early, going 16-3-2 in 2004 and winning the regular season conference championship. The team was ranked as high as No. 15 nationally and was within a goal of qualifying for the NAIA national tournament.

His leadership was recognized as the conference’s coaches voted him the SAC Coach of the Year.Barrows coached third team All-American forward Sherina Wood and three other first team All-SAC players.

His teams also excelled in the classroom and the program has been consistently recognized for having a team grade point average of 3.0 or higher.

He served as an active member of the faculty here and was the recipient of the John Sheffield Teacher of the Year award presented by the by the Student Government Association.

Thorpe named to All-Conference team

Eric Scott — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 06:00:00 GMT

SHAWNEE, Okla. (11-14-11) – Late Friday night, the Sooner Athletic Conference released the women’s soccer All-Conference teams with a Northwestern Oklahoma State University Ranger finding her name on the list.

For her efforts this season in the box, freshman goal keeper Caitlin Thorpe has been named to the second team All-Conference team. The Ponca City, Okla., native finished 3-5-1 this season.

This season, Thorpe finished third in the conference with 6.08 saves a game and seventh overall in total saves with 73. Her 73 saves this season places her fifth on the list for most saves in a Ranger uniform.

In her first home game of the year against Bethany College (Kan.), Thorpe picked up a shutout and four saves, and she had a season high nine saves in a home victory against Wayland Baptist on Oct. 29.

Thorpe played in 12 games during the 2011 campaign for the Rangers who finished 6-11-1 overall, and 2-8-1 in conference play.

Thorpe named SAC defensive player of the week

Eric Scott — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 05:00:00 GMT

SHAWNEE, Okla. (10-31-11) – Caitlin Thorpe has become the latest Northwestern Oklahoma State University women’s soccer player to earn a player of the week award in the Sooner Athletic Conference.

On Monday afternoon, the conference sports information office announced that the freshman goal keeper had been named the top defensive player in the league.

In two matches last week, Thorpe recorded a total of 15 saves, leading her team to a 1-0-1 record. On Thursday, she knocked back and outstanding nine saves in a 2-1 victory over Wayland Baptist (Texas), and saved six on Saturday in a 1-1 draw against Lubbock Christian (Texas).

A native of Ponca City, Thorpe finds herself in the top 50 in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics in saves per game with 6.2. She has a totaled 68 saves this season, on her way to a 3-5 record.

Northwestern (6-10-1, 2-7-1) wraps up regular season play on Tuesday (Nov. 1) at Oklahoma Christian. The match is set to begin at 6 p.m.

Wind ties down Rangers, Lady Chaps to a draw

Eric Scott — Sun, 30 Oct 2011 05:00:00 GMT

ALVA, Okla. (10-29-11) – The Northwestern Oklahoma State University women’s soccer team had to not only battle their opponents, but the Northwest Oklahoma wind, as they settled for their first draw of the season again Lubbock Christian (Texas), 1-1.

With a strong sustained wind out of the south, the players and coaches had to add an extra piece of strategy as they played on the north/south field at the Alva Recreation Complex.

Just as expected, the Lady Chaps of Lubbock Christian jumped out to an early lead with the help of the wind on a goal by Kaylyn Settle during the 8th minute of play. During the first half, the Lady Chaps got 11 shots off to Northwestern’s two against the wind.

Northwestern keeper Caitlin Thorpe had six saves in the contest, four of which came during the first period and two during the second overtime when the Lady Chaps has the wind advantage.

When the Rangers had the win advantage, they made it count. Just three minutes and seven seconds into the second stanza, Emily Witty found Denise Rangel waiting from about 30-yards out for the game tying goal, her third of the season.

Of the Rangers seven shots on goal, six of them came in the second half and the first overtime.

Rangel finished with two shots on goal and Taylor Marsh added two as well. Other Rangers getting good looks at goal was Vivian Vega, Cathy Wabenga and Taylor Clark.

Being the Rangers final home contest of the season, the squad recognized three outstanding seniors, including Kayla Melonie, Vanessa Lopez and Amanda Tosh.

Northwestern (6-10-1, 2-7-1) wraps up regular season play on the road on Tuesday as they travel to face Oklahoma Christian.

Wabenga has solid game in Rangers victory over Wayland Baptist

Eric Scott — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 05:00:00 GMT

ALVA, Okla. (10-27-11) – A pair of Cathy Wabenga goals was just enough to help the Rangers get back on track as they took down conference opponent Wayland Baptist on Thursday afternoon, 2-1.

A sophomore from Euless, Texas, Wabenga was in the right place at the right time on her first goal with time running out in the first half. Wabenga was able to put back a shot from Brianne Brown that was saved, allowing Brown to pick up the assist on Wabenga’s goal.

Nearly picking up an assist before Wabenga’s first goal, Taylor Marsh added one in the 62nd minute as she found Wabenga sprinting up the middle of the field. Wabenga took her time, booting a kick over the head of a leaping Flying Queen keeper for an insurance goal.

The second goal would be just enough as the visitors from West Texas took advantage of an opportunity in the 78th minute, sneaking a ball past a diving Caitlin Thorpe.

Despite allowing the late goal, the freshman Thorpe had a very good game, saving nine of Wayland Baptist’s 11 shot on goals, to picking up her third victory of the season in goal for the Rangers.

Wabenga was very close to picking up a hat trick in the match, nearly scoring her first goal earlier in the first half of play. Vivian Vega added three solid looks at goal while Marsh added two shots on goal as well.

The Rangers wrap up their season on Saturday as they face Lubbock Christian (Texas) in a senior day match beginning at noon. At halftime of that contest, head coach Steve Barrows and the coaching staff will recognize the three Northwestern seniors; Amanda Tosh, Vanessa Lopez and Kayla Meloni.

Ninety extra seconds enough to snap Rangers' losing skid

Eric Scott — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 05:00:00 GMT

ALVA, Okla. (10-20-11) – Cathy Wabenga was at the right place at the right time during the 92nd minute to give the Northwestern Oklahoma State University a sudden-death goal to take the visiting St. Gregory’s Lady Cavs, 2-1.

Coming out of the gate to start the extra-time period, Kaitlyn O’Toole broke loose along the right side after the Rangers won a ball on a goal kick. O’Toole dribbled down the side, booting the ball in the box to Vivian Vega.

Vega got a shot off that went off a Lady Cav defender. Quickly, Wabenga got the rebound and skirted the ball passed the St. Gregory’s keeper for the winning goal.

Wabenga’s first goal of the season snapped a seven match losing streak for the Rangers, including their first six conference games of the season. The Rangers (5-9, 1-6) have now won two overtime matches this year.

Up next is a trip to face conference foe Oklahoma Baptist on Friday in Shawnee. The match is scheduled to kick off at 3 p.m.

While O’Toole was credited with an assist on the winning goal, she added the first Ranger goal tie the game in the 58th minute. O’Toole turned a Lady Cav mistake into an easy goal, breaking way from the defenders, winning the potential one-on-one battle with the keeper.

Both keepers in the contest played well, with Courtney Herian (3-4) added the win for the Rangers with nine saves, while the St. Gregory’s keeper saved eight Northwestern shots.

Despite not scoring a goal, Amanda Tosh had a great game with three shots on goal, while Gabriella Hernandez, Brittany Bunch, Taylor Clark, Brianne Brown and Emily Witty each had good looks as well.

The wind played a huge role in the match. During the first half, the Rangers were going against a brisk north wind, and were out shot by the Lady Cavs 11-to-5. However, the second period and overtime, Northwestern had the wind advantage, taking 15 shots to just two by St. Gregory’s.

Ranger soccer continues to look for first conference win

Eric Scott — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 05:00:00 GMT

ALVA, Okla. (10-14-11) – The final 20-minutes continues to be the Northwestern Oklahoma State University women’s soccer team’s struggle as the Rangers fall to conference foe Rogers State, 2-0, on Friday.

The two squads battled through the first half at an even pace, with the Hillcats getting one more look at goal than Northwestern. Heading into intermission, neither team was able to get a leg up with the score remaining tied at zero.

However, the Hillcats controlled the ball throughout the final 45-minutes of play, taking 12 shots to the Rangers three. The tie was broken in the 70th minute by Rogers State’s Jordan Beasley with a goal from the top of the box.

Beasley converted on the other Hillcat goal with 15 minutes to go in the match.

Five separate Rangers recorded shots on goal in the contest, including Amanda Tosh, Vivian Vega, Denise Rangle, Taylor Marsh and Taylor Clark.

Picking up the loss in goal for Northwestern was Caitlin Thorpe (2-4). The freshman picked up eight saves.

The Rangers (4-9, 0-6) extended their current losing streak to seven matches. They look to pick up their first conference win on Wednesday as they host Saint Gregory’s at 3 p.m.

Conference road struggles continue for Ranger soccer

Eric Scott — Tue, 11 Oct 2011 05:00:00 GMT

SILOAM SPRINGS, Ark. (10-11-11) – The Northwestern Oklahoma State University women’s soccer team continues their road struggles in conference play, falling to John Brown (Ark.), 1-0, on Tuesday.

Northwestern falls to 4-8 overall and remains winless in five conference matches. Up next for the Rangers is a home date against conference opponent Rogers State at 4 p.m. at the Alva Recreation Complex.

In Tuesday’s battle with the Golden Eagles, the Rangers had several opportunities early in the contest, but were unable to put the ball in the net.

Denise Rangle, Taylor Marsh and Brianne Brown the three shots on goal for the Rangers. Northwestern was outshot by the Golden Eagles, 18-8.

Picking up the loss in goal for the Rangers was Caitlin Thorpe. She saved six shots John Brown shots in the match, five of which came during the first half of play.

The lone goal in the contest came in the 27th minute off the foot of John Brown’s Cam Martin.

Late flurry by MACU downs Rangers in OKC

Eric Scott — Sat, 08 Oct 2011 05:00:00 GMT

OKLAHOMA CITY (10-8-11) – A flurry of late goals by Mid-America Christian was too much for the Northwestern Oklahoma State University soccer team, as the Lady Evangels downed the Rangers on Friday, 5-1.

Down one goal in the 33rd minutes, Ranger Denise Rangle tied the game, putting the ball in the back of the net from about 30 yards out.

The match remained knotted at one goal apiece at intermission, but the Lady Evangels defended their home field quickly in the second half with a goal in the 55th minute to take the lead.

The home team then added three goals in the final ten minutes of action to solidify their victory.

Rangle’s goal was her first of the season. In all in the match, she was able to get three shots off.

The Rangers total four shots on goal in the loss with Taylor Marsh, Kayla Meloni and Emily Witty each added one to go with Rangel’s.

Courtney Herian was credited with the loss in goal for Northwestern, saving five of the Lady Evangels 10 shots on goal. MACU’s Melissa Dobie was the winning keeper in the contest.

The Rangers (4-7, 0-4) look to snap their four game skid on the road Tuesday afternoon against John Brown (Ark.). They return home on Friday as they host Rogers State at 4 p.m. at the Alva Recreation Complex.

Rangers fall to No. 17 Stars in soccer action

Eric Scott — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 05:00:00 GMT

ALVA, Okla. (10-1-11) – Following a disappointing loss to Southern Nazarene on Thursday, the Northwestern Oklahoma State University Ranger soccer team was poised to get back on track against No. 17 Oklahoma City on Homecoming Saturday.

Unfortunately, the Stars thought differently, taking down the Rangers in a hard fought battle, 2-0.

Northwestern has now lost three straight, dropping their record to 4-5 overall and 0-2 in Sooner Athletic Conference action. The Rangers return to the pitch on Tuesday as they face conference foe Science and Arts Oklahoma at 3 p.m. at the Alva Recreation Complex.

Recording the loss in goal for the Rangers against the Stars was freshman Courtney Herian. Herian picked up five saves in the contest.

Four separate Rangers got solid looks at the net with Vivian Vega, Taylor Marsh, Brianne Brown and Ellen Trotter all take a shot on goal. Brown led with the way with three total shots, while Vega and Trotter each had two.

Oklahoma City’s Meghan McMahon was the star offensively for the visitors, scoring both goals. The first Stars’ goal came during the 20th minute and the second was in the 79th minute.

Soccer drops heartbreaker to Southwestern

Eric Scott — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 05:00:00 GMT

ALVA, Okla. (9-26-11) – The Northwestern Oklahoma State University women’s soccer team found themselves in yet another overtime contest on Monday, suffering a heartbreaking loss to longtime rival Southwestern Oklahoma State, 2-1.

Despite allowing an incredible 33 shots from Southwestern, the Rangers took advantage of the visitors missed opportunities.

With 54:28 showing on the clock, the Rangers took the lead in the contest as Denise Rangle and Brianne Brown converted a great pass sequence, crossing the box to Vivian Vega who put the ball in the back of the net for her fifth goal of the season.

As the time ran down in the second half, the Bulldogs forced the Rangers to set back on defense the majority of the time. Six of the Bulldogs nine corner kicks came during the second period.

The large crowd at the Alva Recreation Complex was just under five minutes from celebrating a victory when the Bulldogs tied the game on a long goal from about 25-yards from the net.

As the contest went into the overtime period, there was a lot of optimism around the pitch. However, just three minutes in extra time, Jessica Carbonara sneaked a ball by the Ranger keeper for what was thought to be the winning goal.

Fortunately for the Rangers, the center referee called Carbonara offside, negating the goal.

A little over two minutes later, the Bulldogs broke the hearts of the Northwestern players, coaches and fans with a sudden death goal in the 96th minute.

Including her goal, Vega finished with two shots-on-goal, while Brown, Cathy Wabenga, Taylor Marsh and Kaitlyn O’Toole each added one of their own.

Picking up the loss in goal was Courtney Herian. Herian finished the contest with eight saves, while the Ranger defense picked up a save in front of her.

Northwestern, now 4-3 overall this season, looks to get back on track on Thursday in Bethany, Okla., as they begin Sooner Athletic Conference play against Southern Nazarene at 5 p.m.

The Rangers will return home on Saturday at noon against Oklahoma City.

Marsh named SAC offensive player of the week

Eric Scott — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 05:00:00 GMT

SHAWNEE, Okla. (9-26-11) – Northwestern Oklahoma State University’s Taylor Marsh received an honor by the Sooner Athletic Conference on Monday as the women’s soccer offensive player of the week for Sept. 19-24.

Marsh, a junior from Mansfield, Texas, had two goals during the period, including a game winning header at Sterling College (Kan.) in double-overtime. The Rangers defeated NCAA Div. II member East Central earlier in the week, 2-0.

The Rangers have started the season with a 4-2 record overall, with Marsh recording the game winning goal in all four contests. She leads the nation in percentage of game winners and is second in total game winners.

Marsh has a total of five goals on the season.

Northwestern hosts Southwestern Oklahoma State this evening at 6 p.m. at the Alva Recreation Complex and begin Sooner Athletic Conference play on Thursday (Sept. 29) at Southern Nazarene. Thursday’s contest is set to begin at 5 p.m. in Bethany, Okla.

Rangers head home with a victory in double OT

Eric Scott — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 05:00:00 GMT

STERLING, Kan. (9-25-11) – Taylor Marsh played hero on Saturday afternoon on the plains of Kansas, closing out a victory in the final minutes to lift the Northwestern Oklahoma State University soccer team over Sterling College (Kan.), 3-2.

With time running out in the second overtime period, Denise Rangle drove a free kick from about 50 yards away from the goal, into the box and placed the ball perfectly, allowing Marsh to get a head on the ball.

Marsh, a junior midfielder, knew what to do with the pass, putting it in the near corner for the game winning goal with 105:54 on the clock. The goal was Marsh’s fifth of the season, while Rangle picked up her second assists of the contest.

The Rangers (4-2) found themselves looking up at the Warriors just 16-minutes into the contest following two goals by the home squad. However, keeper Caitlyn Thorpe and the rest of the Rangers settled down.

In the 23rd minute of the game, Rangle recorded her first assist, finding Brianne Brown for a goal, her first of the season.

As the minutes began to waste away in regulation, and the Rangers still trailing by a goal with little eight minutes to go, Vivian Vega converted on a pass from freshman Kaitlyn O’Toole to tie the match at two goals apiece.

Both squads battled through the first overtime, and most of the way through the second, before the Rangers were able to get the break they were looking for, setting up the Marsh goal.

Marsh continues to be clutch for Northwestern as she has added the go ahead goal in all four of the Rangers victories. She leads the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics in percentage of game winners, and is third in the nation in game winners.

The game played out as close on the field as it ended on paper, with both teams finishing with a total of 19 shots, and the Rangers getting the slight edge on the Warriors in the shot-on-goal category, 13-10.

Marsh had the most looks for Northwestern with five, while O’Toole was close behind with four.

The Rangers 4-2 start this season is the most wins the program has had in their first six games since the 2004 season. Northwestern went on in that season, winning the Sooner Athletic Conference championship.

Up next for the Rangers is regional rival Southwestern Oklahoma State at the Alva Recreation Complex, with the contest schedule to begin at 6 p.m.

Ranger soccer gets first ever win over East Central

Eric Scott — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 05:00:00 GMT

ALVA, Okla. (9-20-11) – On a warm Tuesday afternoon at the Alva Recreation Complex, teamwork by the Northwestern Oklahoma State University women’s soccer team was key, as the Rangers topped East Central, 2-0.

The victory marked the first time in program history the Rangers have beat the Lady Tigers, including two overtimes and one draw.

Even though the Rangers were only able to get a few shots off in the contest, the ladies out worked the Lady Tigers throughout the contest. Northwestern recorded just three shots, all of which were on goal.

Getting the Rangers on the board first with 20:54 on the clock, Sara Kennedy found Taylor Marsh breaking towards the opposing goal. Marsh finished the play off with a shot from the top of the box that got by the ECU keeper.

It was Marsh’s third goal in two contests.

About midway through the second half of play, Vivian Vega recorded her third goal of the season, putting a Brianne Brown pass in the left corner of the net.

Brown was the only other Ranger with a shot on goal in the contest.

A part of a Northwestern tandem in goal, Courtney Herian improved her record to 2-1. Herian had four saves in Tuesday’s victory over the Lady Tigers.

The victory improves Northwestern’s season record to 3-2. The Rangers head to Sterling College (Kan.) for a 2 p.m. match on Saturday, before returning home next Monday (Sept. 26) for a match against rival Southwestern Oklahoma State.

Marsh, Trotter lead Rangers past Bethany College

Eric Scott — Tue, 13 Sep 2011 05:00:00 GMT

ALVA, Okla. (9-13-11) –A pair of goals from Taylor Marsh and Ellen Trotter gave the Northwestern Oklahoma State soccer team a non-conference victory over Bethany College (Kan.) on Tuesday evening, 4-0.

Marsh, a junior midfielder from Mansfield, Texas, set the tone early for the Rangers as she put the first goal on the scoreboard in the fourth minute. Kayla Meloni picked up the assist on the goal.

Both squads really battled back and forth over the next 35 minutes, with Ellen Trotter finally regaining the momentum for Northwestern after putting a Sara Kennedy pass in the back of the net for the second goal of the evening.

The Rangers came out on fire in the second half. A little over two minutes into the second, Marsh sneaked a shot by the Swedes’ keeper for her second goal of the contest, and the third of the year. She then picked up another point during the 63th minute as she assisted on a goal from about 25-yards out of the foot of Trotter.

The Northwestern women dominated control of the ball throughout the contest, getting excellent looks at 14-of-32 shots. Both goal scorers led the way with three shots on goal, while Denise Rangel, Brianne Brown each had two, and Vanessa Lopez, Vivian Vega, Cathy Wabenga and Chelsie Wood all added one.
In total, the Rangers took 14 shots on goal in the victory.

Caitlin Thorpe picked up the victory in goal, adding four saves to her season total, and evening her record to 1-1 as her team evened their record to 2-2.

Coach Steve Barrow’s team will have a week to prepare for East Central as the Tigers visit Alva for a 4 p.m. match up on Sept. 20.

Second half struggles doom Rangers in Texas

Eric Scott — Fri, 09 Sep 2011 05:00:00 GMT

Fort Worth, Texas (9-9-11) – A second half explosion by the home team doomed the Northwestern women’s soccer team on Thursday afternoon, falling to Red River Athletic Conference opponent Texas Wesleyan, 5-0.

Through the first 45-minutes, the two squads were locked in a nearly even battle, with an early Lady Ram goal giving them a slight advantage, 1-0. As the half ended, the two teams were even with six shots a piece.

However, the second half was a different story as the Rangers were unable to get any momentum going with the Rams holding a 14-1 shot advantage in the second stanza.

Northwestern got three solid looks at the goal, all coming in the first half of play.

With just under three minutes in the contest, the Rangers had their first opportunity when freshman mid-fielder Denise Rangel took the first of her two shots on goal. At the 26:16 mark in the first, Rangel got her second opportunity with a header that was saved by Aubree Gallego of Texas Wesleyan.

Vivian Vega, another freshman standout who is the leading scorer over the first three matches for the Rangers, took the visitors final shot on goal just before the 30-minute mark of the first half.

Recording the loss in goal for the Rangers was freshman Courtney Herian. Herian falls to 1-1 on the season, after picking up a 2-0 shutout on Aug. 27 over Oklahoma Wesleyan.

The young Northwestern team will look to get back on track on Tuesday, Sept. 13, as they host Bethany College (Kan.) at 6 p.m. at the Alva Rec. Center.

Kennedy Inks with Ranger Soccer Team

Ryan Hintergardt — Mon, 11 Jul 2011 05:00:00 GMT

Faith Kennedy of Pawhuska High School will become a member of the 2011 Ranger soccer team as announced by head coach Steve Barrows. Kennedy, a forward and midfielder, was Pawhuska’s Player of the Year last season.

“Faith will add another dimension to our team with her pace and service,” stated Barrows.

Kennedy plans on obtaining her undergraduate and graduate degree in early childhood development or elementary education. She played club soccer with WSA 93 out of Sand Springs.

O'Toole Signs with Ranger Soccer

Ryan Hintergardt — Mon, 27 Jun 2011 05:00:00 GMT

Northwestern Oklahoma State University soccer coach Steve Barrows has announced the signing of Kaitlyn O’Toole of Watauga, Tex. O’Toole graduated from Richland High School and is the daughter of Tim and Debbie O’Toole. She plans to pursue a degree in education.

“Kaitlyn is a skilled player that is effective in all thirds of the field,” stated Barrows.

O’Toole’s club affiliation is with Odyssey Soccer Club, a team she has been the captain for the past three seasons.

Women’s Soccer Adds Three to Roster

Ryan Hintergardt — Thu, 09 Jun 2011 05:00:00 GMT

Northwestern Oklahoma State University soccer coach Steve Barrows has announced the signing of three players for the upcoming 2011 soccer season. Melisa Alexander, Denise Rangel and Chelsie Wood have all signed a letter of intent to play for the Rangers in the fall.

Alexander, who recently graduated from Claremore Christian, will join the team as a defender. She plays club soccer for Hurricane 93-Rhein and is going to pursue a degree in business administration.

“Melisa is a strong ball winner with great distribution skills,” remarked Barrows. “Her presence in the back will assist in our loss of a couple of key defenders and her knowledge of going forward will help our possession and scoring.”

A midfielder from Lewisville, Tex., Rangel will be added to the squad after graduating from Lewisville High School. She plans on becoming a teacher and coach after college.

“Denise is a very technical player that has the ability to crack a shot with either foot, both near and far,” Barrows said. “Her skill at dribbling and putting the ball at the right place with the proper weight will really increase our desire to play with more possession and scoring effectiveness.”

Wood, who graduated from Midlothian High School in Midlothian, Tex., is a defender and midfielder. She currently plays club soccer for Sting West 93 O’Keefe. Wood is interested in pursuing a degree in nursing or physical therapy.

“Chelsie is a quick, technical defender-midfielder with toughness and ball-winning abilities will impact our squad right away,” said Barrows.

Herian Joins Northwestern Soccer Team

Ryan Hintergardt — Mon, 18 Apr 2011 05:00:00 GMT

Courtney Herian of Thornton, Colo. has signed inked a letter of intent to attend Northwestern Oklahoma State University. A goalkeeper at Mountain Range High School, Herian will join the Ranger soccer team in the upcoming 2011 season. She also participates in the Broomfield Blast U-17 White club team.

Trotter Inks with Soccer Team

Ryan Hintergardt — Thu, 10 Feb 2011 06:00:00 GMT

Ellen Trotter, a senior at Desert Vista High School in Phoenix, Ariz., is the newest signee for the Ranger soccer team. Trotter, a center midfielder will join the Rangers during the 2011 soccer season.

Thorpe Signs with Ranger Soccer

Ryan Hintergardt — Thu, 03 Feb 2011 06:00:00 GMT

Ponca City High School senior goalie Caitlin Thorpe signed a letter of intent to play for the 2011 Ranger soccer team.

Seated with Caitlin is her father John Thorpe and mother Traci Thorpe. Standing from left to right is Ponca City assistant athletic director Karl Lynes, Ponca City assistant coach J.B. Bohon, Northwestern head coach Steve Barrows and Ponca City head coach Stephan Engster.

Ranger Soccer Signs Witty Sisters

Ryan Hintergardt — Wed, 22 Dec 2010 06:00:00 GMT

Northwestern Oklahoma State University soccer coach Steve Barrows has announced the signing of Emily and Sarah Witty of Mustang to play for the Rangers in the upcoming 2011 season.

"Emily and Sarah will make a strong impact on our team and they are true footballers,” stated Barrows. “They are passionate about the game and play all out regardless of conditions. Emily is more attack-minded and Sarah is more defensive-minded and each can find feet and have a good tactical awareness. Besides being good players, they are also outstanding students, as well as having high personal standards and expectations.”

Sarah and Emily play club soccer for NOKC 93 White and are the daughters of Terry and Lynda Witty.

Nunez Named 2010 Daktronics-NAIA Women’s Soccer Scholar-Athlete

Ryan Hintergardt — Tue, 07 Dec 2010 06:00:00 GMT

Ranger soccer senior Christina Nunez was honored by the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics, as she was named a 2010 Daktronics-NAIA Women’s Soccer Scholar-Athlete. Nunez was one of 446 women’s soccer student-athletes to chosen for the award.

Nunez, a native of San Antonio, Tex., is majoring in health and sports science education.

The four-year starter played in 64 games and started in 61. During her career, Nunez scored 15 goals and had 11 assists. She led the Rangers this past season with five assists and scored four goals.

“Christina is a very hard worker, both in the classroom and on the field,” remarked Barrows. “It is gratifying to be recognized for effort and accomplishment. Christina is the consummate student-athlete and she will go on to be an outstanding teacher and coach.”

In order to be nominated by an institution’s head coach, a student-athlete must maintain a minimum grade point average of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale and must have achieved a junior academic status to qualify for the honor.

Marsh Named to Sooner Athletic All-Conference Squad

Ryan Hintergardt — Mon, 15 Nov 2010 16:11:59 GMT

Sophomore midfielder Taylor Marsh was named to the list of 14 women’s soccer players named to the 2010 Sooner Athletic Conference Second-Team All-Conference.

A native of Mansfield, Tex., Marsh led the Rangers in goals and points. She scored a team-high six goals, including two game-winning goals. She had two assists and 14 points, while playing all 18 games.

Northwestern finished the season at 6-12 overall and was 3-8 in Sooner Athletic Conference play.

2010 Sooner Athletic All-Conference Soccer Team

Ranger Soccer Ends Season With Loss to USAO

Ryan Hintergardt — Wed, 03 Nov 2010 19:37:51 GMT

ALVA – The Ranger soccer team ended its season at the Alva Rec. Complex on Tuesday afternoon in the regular season finale in a 3-0 loss to the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma.

All three goals in the match were scored in the first half by the Drovers.

The Rangers shot 11 times, with Taylor Marsh attempting seven shots. Brianne Brown got off two shots and Kayla Meloni and Christina Nunez each shot once.

USAO shot 23 times, while Kelsey Archer was credited with 13 saves.

Northwestern finished the season at 6-12 overall and at 3-8 in the Sooner Athletic Conference. The Rangers will lose three seniors; Archer, Nunez and Lee Gunn.

Rogers State Downs Rangers 4-0

Ryan Hintergardt — Sat, 30 Oct 2010 21:51:03 GMT

ALVA – Northwestern gave up four goals in the second half, leading to a 4-0 loss to Rogers State University at the Alva Rec. Complex on Saturday.

Neither team scored in the opening half, with the Rangers outshooting the Hillcats 11-7 in the opening period.

A minute and 48 seconds after the second period began, RSU scored on a penalty kick, following a NWOSU foul in the box. The Hillcats second goal came 10 minutes later on another penalty kick.

Rogers State scored two more goals, one at the 75^th minute and one under five minutes remaining, taking the 4-0 victory.

Five Rangers shot on the afternoon, as Taylor Marsh and Christina Nunez both took five shots. The Rangers landed four shots of its 16 taken.

Northwestern (6-11, 3-7) will play its final game of the season on Tuesday, Nov. 2, when they host USAO in a 4 p.m. match.