Longwood University Athletics

Coach Byers on Strickland: “Mel’s finishing was a big focus point this last spring and we are excited to see her use these skills and get some goals.”

Junior (2008): Appeared in 21 games with nine starts ... scored two goals and added one assist for five points ... 10 shots with five shots on goal.

Sophomore (2007): Sixteen starts in 22 appearances ... tied for third on team with three goals ... fourth on the team with eight points ... added two assists on the year ... tied for third on team with 19 shots and 14 shots on goal ... .737 shots on goal percentage.

Freshman (2006): Appeared in 15 games with three starts ... one shot attempt.

Before Longwood: Four-year member of the varsity field hockey team at Princess Anne HS in Virginia Beach ... AAA state runner-up as a senior ... Honorable Mention All-Beach District in field hockey as a sophomore, junior and senior ... AAA state champions as a junior ... Regional Champions all four years ... also played four years on the varsity soccer team ... Honorable Mention All-Beach District soccer selection as a sophomore and junior.

Personal: Daughter of Mark and MaryAnne Strickland ... participated in TOPS (The Outreach Program for Soccer) ... volunteered with Special Olympics ... interned with an advertising company and worked at a field hockey camp during summer 2009.

Major: Communication studies with a concentration in graphic design.