St. Louis sign female player to five-game MISL contract.

[François]

St. Louis Steamers sign female player to five-game MISL contract



posted February 15 @ 20:09, EST

ST. LOUIS (AP) - The St. Louis Steamers have signed Lindsay Kennedy to a five-game contract, and she is expected to become the Major Indoor Soccer League's first female player.

Kennedy, a forward, is set to make her debut Saturday when the Steamers play at home against the Milwaukee Wave, who have forward Giuliano Oliviero of Vancouver in their lineup. Three other women previously have played on men's professional indoor soccer teams in other leagues.

The Steamers acquired the player rights to Kennedy, 24, last month, allowing her to practice with the team.

Steamers board chairman Wally Smerconish said Tuesday there was a "divergence of opinion" on actually putting Kennedy on the roster.

"We were hesitant to change a winning chemistry but, ultimately, as a father of two daughters, I am proud to say there will be no glass ceiling in soccer," Smerconish said.

Steamers president and chief executive Michael Hetelson said the team liked the skill and toughness Kennedy showed in workouts.

"She is a great competitor and is looking to contribute to the team," he said.

Kennedy played one year of college soccer at Kansas before transferring to her home-city St. Louis and playing three seasons at Harris-Stowe State College. Her 24 goals and 56 points in 2000 set school records.

The five-foot-10, 135-pound Kennedy set school records in goals, assists and points.