The Niagara Knights women's soccer and basketball programs have made a major move to bolster their lineups beginning in September with the addition of multi-sport standout Lauren Frasca. The Welland native is a graduate of Notre Dame College School and competed for the Niagara Regional Soccer Program and Welland Warriors Club basketball system.

During a letter of intent and scholarship signing event at the Niagara College Welland campus, both Rob Lalama and Mike Beccaria, head coaches of the Niagara Knights women's soccer and basketball programs respectively, were quick to praise the athleticism and competiveness of the five-foot-seven defensive specialist.

"Lauren is and outstanding athlete that we are pleased to welcome to the Knights family" said Beccaria.  "We love her competitiveness and her ability to attack the rim. We are projecting her to be a very good defensive player at the OCAA level."

Frasca is a two-time OBA Division Two basketball champion with the Welland Warriors. Before taking to the court with the Knights women's basketball program, she will flex her prowess at the right full back position for the Knights women's soccer program beginning in August.

"Lauren is a very skilled defensive player with good game sense" commented first year Knights women's soccer head coach Rob Lalama. "She has tremendous speed on defense with the ability to shut down primary attackers. She brings physicality and aggressiveness to our back line, and is also capable of jumping into the attack."

The seventeen year old Frasca will enroll in the Niagara College fitness and health promotion program beginning in September.

"Attending Niagara College is a great opportunity to compete in both basketball and soccer for a post-secondary school that is highly regarded for their academic and athletic programs" said Frasca. "The school is also close to home, meaning family and friends are always close by for encouragement and support."

In addition to her soccer and basketball accolades the highly decorated Frasca brings the Knights a resume that also includes numerous high-level track and field and sportsmanship awards.

"My goals are to complete my education while maintaining my passion for both basketball and soccer. I also want to become a stronger threat offensively because I have always been very defensive minded, but I really want ensure I am contributing at both ends."