PROVO -- Katie Larkin, a standout forward for the BYU women's soccer team, will test her talent against the best the nation has to offer this weekend, heading to Carson, Calif. to train with the U-20 women's national team.
"The only thing I can really feel right now is nervousness," Larkin said. "These are some of the best players in the nation. I never would have thought I'd have this kind of opportunity--it's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and a great honor. I just want to play my best and make the most of it."
Larkin, who was a first-team All-MWC selection, while scoring four goals and assisting on six others during 2005, was invited to train with the national team because of numerous coaches' recommendations. Head coach Tim Schulz recently saw Larkin's skills first hand when the Cougars beat the national team last weekend, 2-1.
The national team is currently preparing for the U-20 World Championships, and Larkin if vying for one of the final spots on the team.
"It's a great opportunity for Katie to continue to play at the highest level," BYU head coach Jennifer Rockwood said. "She's been playing extremely well lately and has a great opportunity to earn a spot on the team. She just needs to relax and enjoy the experience."
The training camp will be held at The Home Depot Center, where the various national teams practice, and will run for eight days starting Sunday. The camp will include nine matches, as well as scrimmages against Long Beach State, Pepperdine, Loyola Marymount, San Diego State and USC.