April 25, 2003

RALEIGH, N.C. -

RALEIGH, N.C. --- NC State head women's soccer coach Laura Kerrigan has announced that Michelle Demko has been named assistant coach for the Wolfpack. Demko recently retired from her professional playing career after finishing her second season with the WUSA's Philadelphia Charge. Prior to playing in the WUSA, Demko played in Germany in the Women's Bundesliga (1997-2000) and in the W-League for the Maryland Pride (1994-96).

"We are excited to welcome Michelle into our program," said Kerrigan. "She brings a wealth of knowledge about the game of soccer and a tremendous personality. She will add much to our staff and to our team."

Demko, who played soccer at the University of Maryland under current U.S. National Team Coach April Heinrichs, was recently named to the Atlantic Coast Conference's 50th Anniversary Women's Soccer Team. She played in three United States Olympic Soccer Festivals (1994-96), as well as being called into national team training camps in 1995, 1996 and 1997.

"Michelle is a great role model, demonstrator and educator in the game," said Heinrichs. "She is as passionate about the game of soccer as any young woman I have ever coached."

Demko received a bachelor of Science-Kinesiology from the University of Maryland and specialized in the social aspects of sport. Prior to her arrival at Maryland, she played soccer at Barry University in Miami Shores, Fla.