Women's Hoops Sign Pair of Nor Cal Athletes

Immediate Release
May 30, 2006

REDDING, Calif. -- Simpson University head women's basketball coach Elizabeth Manninen has announced the signing of two Northern Section student-athletes for the 2006-07 season. The move is the latest in an effort to develop local talent and keep them close to home to play for the Red Hawks.

Yreka's Nikki Hopkins has signed a national letter of intent to attend Simpson after averaging 12 points a game in her senior season. The 6'1' center is a three-time All Northern Athletic League selection under coach Billy Mittan, and was named to the Lions All-Star team in 2006.

'Nikki will bring athleticism to the post position,' Manninen said. 'Her quickness and ability to finish make her a valuable weapon on the block. Nikki also brings a joy and enthusiasm that will make her a strong addition to our team.'

Joining Hopkins and the Lady Red Hawks is former Shasta College and Red Bluff High School standout Kelsey Lang. The 5'11' shooting guard spent the 2005-06 season on the bench as an assistant coach for coach Jerry Brown at Shasta College.

'Kelsey will bring a new dimension to the guard position; much needed 3-point shooting,' said Manninen, who is in her second year as head coach. 'She will bring attributes of the game that she learned under coach Brown, including incredible work ethic and a strong knowledge of the game. Kelsey will be a tremendous asset to our program.'

For more information on Red Hawks athletics please contact us at (530)226-4703 or athletics@simpsonuniversity.edu.

Contact: Mark Pettengill - Director of Athletics
athletics@simpsonuniversity.edu
(530) 226-4703