IRVINE, Calif. --- A "hyper" and combat-minded attacking force standing just 5-foot-3 joins the ranks of the Anteaters in Jonnae Joseph.
"I am really looking forward to playing at such an amazing school and am really thankful," Joseph beamed. Jonnae (John-AY) was a leader at Riverside Poly High School where the team captain pocketed All-CIF and all-league honors three times and adding First Team All-Area in 2015.
Head Coach Scott Juniper sees her ability to step in immediately. "Jonnae Joseph has the potential to make a memorable impact as a freshman here in the fall of 2015."
"I really wanted to stay somewhat close to home. I felt like the coaching staff was really genuine in what they were saying, and I feel like I will be able to learn a lot with them."
She and her fellow Bears followed up a CIF Second Round appearance in 2014 with a semifinals appearance in 2015 resulting from an undefeated league season.
On the club circuit, she was a member of Albion SC snatching an ECNL National Championship in 2012 and earning Female Player of the Year honors in 2014. Her performance helped her book a spot on the Cal South Olympic Developmental Pool squad alongside fellow Anteater recruits including JJ Vogel where together they took regional and national championship titles.
"Watching her play over time and spending time with her family confirmed for us that she has all the UC Irvine characteristics of relentless work ethic, fierce competitiveness, and committed team mentality."
"I am really looking forward to starting the season and being able to play with a new group of teammates," added Joseph.
She described her position on the field as "everywhere", but tends to gravitate toward the offensive end as an outside forward, and proved her worth leading her team in scoring as a senior.
"Jonnae plays with a contagious energy, and she will compete for a number of different positions on the field for us."
"I love it in Irvine, UCI has incredible academics and it just felt right," boasted the scholar-athlete. "I am super excited to see all the other sports play as well, and can't wait to be there. Zot On!"
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