Last Thursday, the Pali Blues Soccer Club announced the acquisition of Stanford University forward Kelley O’Hara–the latest in a series of off-season moves that make the Palisades-based team the favorite to defend its W-League title. “This is another huge signing for us,” Blues Coach Charlie Naimo said. “Kelley is not only a complete player, she is a winner. Her competitive spirit and passion shine every time she steps on the pitch. She reminds me a lot of [U.S. national team player] Heather O’Reilly and, without question, will be joining her next year in the new women’s pro league.” O’Hara has experience at the national level as well. She received her first call-up to the senior U.S. Women’s National Team in March 2007 and began her national team career with the U-16 club in 2004. She then progressed to the U-17 side and led the team with 10 goals in 2005. Since then she has logged minutes for both the U-20 and U-21 Women’s National Teams. In three years at Stanford O’Hara has 81 points (31 goals, 19 assists) and is a three-time All-Pac 10 selection. She was the Gatorade State Player of the Year in 2006 when she led Starr’s Mill High of Fayetteville, Georgia, to the 5A state championship. “Kelley is another tremendous signing and reflects our commitment this season to building an exciting, offensive-minded team our fans are sure to appreciate,” Blues General Manager Jason Lemire said.
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