Cari Roccaro, prized for her versatility

[FOUR THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT …] One of only three field players on the U.S. under-20 national team who are still in high school, Long Island’s Cari Roccaro is one of the most versatile players on the team. The Notre Dame recruit is a defender for the U-20s but plays in midfield and up front for her clubteams. For four things to know about Roccaro …

IMPACT PLAYER. Roccaro is part of an incoming class at Notre Dame that is considered perhaps the bestin the country. “She possesses great size and strength, much like a Melissa Tancredi, and is a very good athlete,” says Irish coach Randy Waldrum. “She is extremely versatile playing in the defense for the U.S. U-17 World Cup team, and playing in midfield and up front with her Albertson Furyteam. She will be one that will come in and impact our program right away.”

GIFTED ATHLETE. Paul Rileyhas coached a lot of great girls on Long Island but calls Roccaro one of the most gifted athletes he’s coached. Says Riley, who spent thelast two summers coaching WPS’s Philadelphia Independence, “She is an amazing physical specimen with a great feel for the ball.”

FURY STANDOUT.Roccaro has starred for Albertson Fury, one of the top girls programs in the New York area, and New York Fury of the WPSL. Riley says Roccaro is one of the top young players in the WPSL. “Carihas a super future in this game,” he says, “and her ability on the ball, shooting prowess and tactical knowledge make her a player to watch out for in the WPSL.”

PREP STAR. Roccaro was a two-time NSCAA All-American selection and New York Gatorade Player of the Year at East Islip High School. She had 11 goals and four assists as a senior. Sheis not only a great soccer player but an all-conference performer in track & field as well.