CHICAGO, Ill. ( March 6th, 2012 ) - The Chicago Red Stars today announced the signing of Lori Chalupny for their 2012 campaign. The 28 year-old versatile midfielder/defender began her WPS career in her hometown with Saint Louis Athletica where she earned WPS All-Star accolades in 2009 before transitioning to the Atlanta Beat, where she served as team captain through 2011. She was briefly signed to WPS' Philadelphia Independence this year prior to joining the Red Stars.
Chalupny has also captained the US Women's National Team and earned a gold medal at the 2008 Olympics, in addition to being a member of the 2007 World Cup team. She has earned over 90 CAPS representing her country.
Prior to her professional career, Chalupny was an All-American and NCAA Champion at the University of North Carolina.
"Adding a player with Lori's experience and ability will further increase the team's chance to compete for the league championship and will add great excitement for fans of the Red Stars," stated returning Head Coach of the Red Stars Rory Dames.
Veteran leadership will be an important element for a Red Stars squad that has made the leap from the WPSL Midwest-North division to the new WPSL ELITE division, where they will look to compete for a Championship against other former WPS teams such as Boston Breakers and 2011 WPS Champions WNY Flash.
After the cancellation of the 2012 WPS season many former WPS players have been seeking opportunities with overseas clubs, but Chalupny is looking forward to getting the year underway and playing close to home.
"I am so excited to join the Chicago Red Stars for the 2012 season and to compete for the WPSL Elite championship. It is a great opportunity to improve as a player and continue to grow women's soccer in the United States. I can't wait for the season to begin."
The Chicago Red Stars joined the new WPSL Elite League this year after falling just short in overtime of the 2011 Championship game in their inaugural year in Women's Premier Soccer League ( WPSL ) . WPSL Elite is comprised of three former WPS clubs: the Red Stars, Boston Breakers and WNY Flash. Joining the Red Stars from their former WPSL Midwest Conference is regional rival FC Indiana. Rounding out the 8-team league is ASA Chesapeake Charge, Aztec MA, Maryland Capitols FC, and Philadelphia Fever.
Additional player announcements ( including multiple other former WPS players ) will be released soon along with schedule, venue details, and ticket information. An open tryout for remaining roster spots will be held in early April and will be announced in the coming week. Join our email list at www.chicagoredstars.com for details and follow the team on twitter @chicagoredstars andfacebook.com/chicagoredstars.