Ottumwa -- When putting together a strong soccer team, it's imperative that you include a very good goalkeeper in the mix. Indian Hills coach Stephanie Gale is confident she has found the player who will fill that role for the Warriors next fall. Gale announced that Marta Lopez, a goal keeper from Spain, has signed to play for the Warriors.

"Marta can be dominating in goal with good reactions and positioning," Gale said. "She will be a clear leader for us and can lead us from the back with her ability to take the game on her shoulders. She has fantastic reactions and understands the game at a great level, so she puts herself in position to make the big saves."

Lopez is from Massanassa, a municipality in the Valencian Community of Spain. She has played for several soccer teams, including Levante U.D., Valencia C.F. and U.D. Aldaia. She is currently competing for C.F.F. Maritim.

"I chose Indian Hills because it seems like a great college and offers me the opportunity to develop my academic and soccer skills," Lopez stated. "I like the enthusiasm and plans that coach Gale has for me and the team. I am really excited to join the team this fall."

"As a group we will do our best to help Marta adjust to the lifestyle here in the United States," Gale said about her latest recruit. "With the high level and quality of international players we are bringing in they will be able to support each other in the process of getting acclimated to their new surroundings and that's why I think Indian Hills is a great fit for Marta."

Lopez emphasized that she is really looking forward to attending Indian Hills and joining the IHCC soccer program. And she is excited, she said, to meet new people and experience a new culture.