The U soccer team and new head coach Rich Manning added another player to their quest for the NCAA Tournament.

Carisse Winegar, from Bountiful High School in Bountiful, Utah, officially signed on to the U squad.

Winegar brings a great amount of athleticism to the Utes, as she lettered in three sports with Bountiful. On the soccer field, Winegar acclaimed first team all-state status as a forward for the Braves in 2001 and 2002. She helped lead Bountiful to a state championship in 2001.

Winegar also was a two-time all-state track athlete, and helped lead the team to a state title in 2001. She placed third in the 300-meter hurdles and won the school’s 2001 Award of Outstanding Performance.

Winegar was actually recruited by Amy Winslow, former soccer coach, but Manning was “really leased” to have her in a U uniform.

“The thing I like most about her is she’s aggressive and very persistent,” said Manning. “She seems to fight through adversity very well. Eventually that pays off.”

Winegar will likely play forward or midfielder for the U, as she has played both positions.

Winegar’s academic record will also be welcome to the Utes squad. She has consistently been on Bountiful’s scholastic and citizenship honor rolls. As a team, the Utes recorded 15 academic all-conference selections last year.