Larks add pair of Bethany Christian seniors to growing women’s soccer program

Heather Schwartz and Elyse Hooley, both seniors at Bethany Christian High School in Goshen, Ind., have signed letters of intent to continue their soccer careers at Hesston College. The duo becomes the seventh and eighth signees for Hesston coach Bryan Kehr’s 2011-12 squad.

A two-sport athlete at Bethany Christian, Schwartz also played basketball for the Bruins. An outside-midfielder and defender, she was named Most Improved Player following her senior season in soccer.

“I believe Heather will thrive at Hesston College,” Kehr said. “Having known Heather since middle school, I know she will bring a positive work ethic and spirit to the Larks women’s soccer team and am excited to have her join the program.”

An honor roll student, Schwartz will pursue nursing at Hesston. She attends Silverwood Mennonite Church in Goshen and is active in the youth group there.

Schwartz is the daughter of Bruce and Cheryl Schwartz, Elkhart, Ind.

A forward, midfielder and defender, Hooley played for the 2009 Bruins team that won a sectional championship. Injuries to both knees limited her playing days at Bethany, but Kehr anticipates Hooley will be a healthy and productive player for the Larks this fall.

“Elyse has been a powerful player and will bring a degree of toughness to the team,” Kehr said. “She’ll be a major contributor.”

Hooley is a member of Sunnyside Mennonite Church in Elkhart and is active in the youth group there. She plans to study business at Hesston College.

Hooley is the daughter of Eric and Glenda Hooley, Goshen.