COSTA MESA. The Orange Empire Conference announced today the selection of Alexandra Wilson (SO) and Britney McAleer (FR) to the OEC 2^nd Team All Conference.

Wilson (Huntington Beach, CA) participated in all 42 games this season with a .330 batting average, driving in 17 runs on 41 hits. Said head coach Pat Craig of Wilson’s performance this year, “Alex has been the most versatile and durable player on the squad. Her leadership, consistent hitting, and ability to play any defensive position proved that all season.” Wilson also received the team’s MVP Award for the 2006 season.

McAleer (Costa Mesa, CA) finished the year hitting .287 leading the team in hits (43), RBI’s (30) and home runs (8). “Britney was the most feared hitter on the team, she hit 3 home runs in conference play, including 2 in one game against Saddleback College. on April 12^th” ,said Craig. McAleer also received the Team’s Offensive Player of the year Award.

COSTA MESA. Head Softball Coach Pat Craig announced today the hiring of University of Virginia standout Ruby Rojas to the Orange Coast Softball staff. Rojas will assist in all aspects of the program, with an emphasis on infield defense. "We're very excited to have Ruby as part of our program. Her experience as a collegiate star and international competitor with the Venezuelan National Team make her a valuable addition to the team" said Craig.

Dean of Athletics and Physical Education, Barbara Bond commented, "We are delighted to welcome Ruby to Orange Coast. She will have an excellent influence on our student athletes, both as a coach and as a positive female role model."

Rojas just returned from the Pan Am and World Championship qualifier in Guatemala where the team placed 3rd behind Canada and the US to earn a berth to the ISF World Championship this summer in Beijing.

"I'm very grateful for this opportunity at Orange Coast", said Rojas. "Coach Craig and I share the same coaching philosophy and vision for the future of this program."

Rojas played 4 years at third base for UVA, earning ACC Rookie of the Year in  2001, NFCA 1st Team All ACC in 2001, 2002, and 2003, Highest Batting Average in ACC (.401) in 2001, 1st Team All ACC 50th Anniversary Team and UVA MVP honors in 2003. Her Venezuelan National Team placed 1st at the ISF Central American & Caribbean Games in 2002, 1st at the ISF Bolivian Games in 2002, and 2nd at the Italian Invitational in Milan in 2003. She was also named Venezuelan Female Athlete of the Year in 1998.