EDINBURG– The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) women's soccer head coach Glad Bugariu announced on Monday the signings of midfielder Melissa Balachorek, defender Delaney Carrell, and Brownsville Pace defender Marcy Garza for the 2019-20 academic year. 
 
"Our first three signings of the 2019 class are a part of what will be a tremendous class," Bugariu said. "It is one that is expected to keep us in the top three of our conference while working toward our ultimate goal, a WAC championship."
 
Balachorek comes to UTRGV from Whitby, Ontario where she attended Henry Street High School. She is a four-time Athlete of the Year honoree, a three-time team Most Valuable Player, and earned a spot on the honor roll four-times.
 
Balachorek played her club soccer with FC Durham Academy.
 
"Missy comes from an excellent club environment and is well prepared for the Division I game." Bugariu said. "She can play two or three positions comfortably and will certainly compete for significant playing time right away."
 
Originally from Georgetown, Carrell comes to UTRGV from Rouse High School where she lettered four years. As a junior, she was named to the All-District First Team, the All-State Second Team, and the All-Central Texas Team after leading her team to a District 19-5A title and into the third round of the playoffs.
 
Carrell played her club soccer with Lonestar Soccer Club where they won the National Presidents Cup in 2015 and the Region III Championship in 2017 and 2018.
 
"Delaney will continue our tradition of excellent outside backs," Bugariu said. "Much of our system is built on the quality of these players and I have no doubts Delaney will step right into the role from day one. She comes from an excellent club and is a winner."
 
Garza helped Pace High School to an undefeated regular season in 2018 and a District 32-5A championship for the first time since 2009. She was named to the 32-5A All-District Team after helping Pace reach the third round of the Class 5A state playoffs.
 
Off the field, Garza is a member of the National Honor Society, the Spanish Honor Society, and a member of the Student Council.
 
"Marcy continues to show that the Rio Grande Valley has begun producing NCAA Division I players on a regular basis." Bugariu said. "She will improve our overall standard and will compete at every moment. I am really looking forward to having her a part of our group."

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