Buczkowski, Sitch to play for Red Stars
The Chicago Red Stars have signed two local soccer stars, Jen Buczkowski and Julianne Sitch, for the 2012 WPSL Elite season.
Buczkowski, a 26-year-old midfielder from Elk Grove Village, began her professional career with Sky Blue FC (NY/NJ) in 2009, where she won a WPS championship. After, she was a two-year starter with WPS’ Philadelphia Independence, helping them reach the 2011 WPS championship final after appearing in every minute of each match during the regular season.
The Gatorade Illinois High School Player of the Year in 2003, Buczkowski played her college soccer at Notre Dame, where she still holds several records while helping the Irish compile a 92-8-3 record in her college career and win the 2005 NCAA National Championship.
“The WPSL Elite League will allow me to play in a competitive environment,” Buczkowski offered. “I look forward to the season starting and I know the Chicago Red Stars will be ready to compete for the title.”
Sitch, a 28-year-old midfielder/defender from Oswego, is a familiar name for Red Stars fans. She most recently appeared with the Atlanta Beat of WPS in 2011 after having spent time with WPS’ WNY Flash, WPS Champions Sky Blue FC in 2009 alongside current teammate Buczkowski, and the 2010 WPS Red Stars team.
Sitch attended DePaul, where she still holds the career records in goals, assists, and points. She was a first team selection on the All-Big East team, and prior to DePaul’s conference switch, the All-Conference USA team.
“I love Chicago, it’s home, and it’s going to be great to have my family and friends out at the games again,” Sitch said.
The WPS league was suspended for the 2012, and the WPSL Elite League was formed to fill the gap. WPSL Elite is comprised of three former WPS clubs: the Red Stars, Boston Breakers and WNY Flash. Joining the Red Stars from their former WPSL Midwest Conference is regional rival FC Indiana. Rounding out the 8-team league is ASA Chesapeake Charge, Aztec MA, New England Mutiny, and Philadelphia Fever.
“Jen and Julianne both bring a wealth of ability and experience to our team,” said Red Stars head coach Rory Dames. “ The fact that both are local products will only add to the excitement for our fans when they get to see them in action.”
Buczkowski and Sitch will be in attendance at the Red Stars booth this weekend at the Illinois Youth Soccer Expo, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday at the Schaumburg Sports Center, 1141 W. Irving Park Road.