Feb. 22, 2013
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By Jenna Marina
UCFAthletics.com
ORLANDO, Fla. (UCFAthletics.com) - Good news has come in for two former members of the UCF women's soccer team. All-American goalkeeper Aline Reis has been invited to participate in the National Women's Soccer League by way of the Portland Thorns' preseason camp, and newly graduated Andrea Rodrigues is set to compete in her second Algarve Cup with the Portugal National Team.
Reis flew out to Portland recently to spend a weekend trying out for the team. She was invited to participate with the team for its four-week preseason, which begins March 11, and vie for a spot on the roster for the inaugural season of the NWSL.
"I'm so pleased with this opportunity and I'm looking forward to play the game I love once again, but there's still a lot more work to do," Reis said. "In everything I do, I like to take things one step at a time, and my focus right now is on showing my best soccer during pre-season, so I can make the team and help the Portland Thorns get to the championship game at the end of August."
UCF forward Nicolette Radovcic was selected by the Thorns in the second round of the NWSL's January draft, and Reis is excited about the opportunity to potentially play with her former teammate.
"In my senior year, Nicolette was the No. 1 player I wanted on the field with me," Reis said. "Nic's hard work and never-ending effort are contagious and stimulating. Her constant energy motivated everyone around her to do their best. I'm very happy we are in this together."
Reis is one of UCF's most decorated players and helped the Knights advance to the Elite Eight in 2011 after coming up with a highlight-reel, diving save in penalty kicks to upset perennial powerhouse North Carolina. She is currently the director of operations for the UCF women's soccer team.
Rodrigues will travel to Portugal once again to compete for the national team as she was called up to compete in her second Algarve Cup. The Algarve Cup is a global invitational tournament and one of the most prestigious soccer events. This year marks the 20th installment of the tournament and it will take place March 6-13.
"I am extremely excited and very honored to be called up again," Rodrigues said. "It was an amazing experience last year to get to share the field with players like Abby Wambach, Alex Morgan and (Japan's) Homare Sawa. I can't wait for this year's tournament."
Rodrigues joined the Portugal National Team in 2010 and has worked her way into a starting role. She scored the game-winner against Hungary in last year's Algarve Cup.
The St. Petersburg, Fla., native will report to Portugal March 2 with the first game scheduled four days later. Portugal's bracket includes Hungary, Mexico and Wales, and the 12-team field also includes Germany, Norway, Sweden, Japan, USA and China.