THIS YEAR: Unbelievable energy and drive … Inspiring defense … Makes impossible plays look easy … Competes every day in gym … Will contribute to overall team success.

HIGH SCHOOL: Played four varsity seasons at Vista Murrieta High School in Murrieta, graduating in 2008 … Served three years as team captain … Earned all-league first team three seasons in a row … Also garnered all-league second-team consideration as a freshman … Twice named Player of the Year by Temecula-based newspaper, The Californian.

PERSONAL: Born Sept. 29, 1989 in Fallbrook to Bob and Raechele Russo … Has one brother (26) and one sister (22) … Sister, Brianna, played soccer for four seasons at Westmont … Majoring in liberal studies … Plans to teach at elementary level.