Johnson City, Tenn. -- East Tennessee State head soccer coach Heather Henson announced that Ashley Richards has signed a National Letter of Intent to play soccer for the Bucs in 2001.

The Bradenton, Fla. native joins the Bucs after a stellar prep career at Saint Stephens Episcopal High School. While at Saint Stephens, she earned five varsity letters and helped her team to the regional finals in 1999 and 2000. A team captain during her season season, she helped Saint Stephens to the district championship in 2000 and 2001.

Richards was also a member of the Florida Olympic Development Team in 1997, 1998 and 1999. She also earned All-Area State Select team honors in 1999 and 2000.

"Ashley is a great addition to our program not just as a player but as a person," Henson said. "She is a talented player who gives us several options because of her athletic ability and experience." "With Ashley's speed and eye for the goal, she will see time in the midfield and on the front line."