MOSCOW, Idaho – Former Idaho soccer standout Kavita Battan is set to take her talents to the next level, competing for Team USA at the upcoming World University Games in August.
 
"They sent it out the day before the roster was released and I saw my name on it and I was freaking out," Battan said.  "I was completely shocked, I was shaking.  I was actually with Lex (Elexis Schlossarek) and Torell Stewart and I was so terrified to look at the roster that I started sweating.  But then I saw my name and I freaked out."
 
"Obviously we're very excited for Kavita," said head coach Derek Pittman.  "This is definitely a testament to her talent and her work ethic and where she has been able to put herself in her last four years here at the University of Idaho.  We're very proud of her, very excited that she's going to be able to represent the University of Idaho at this tournament."
 
The Games take place from August 19-30 in Taipei and feature some of the best young athletes from across the globe.
 
"I think it's a huge statement for the University of Idaho," Battan continued.  "I think it shows that we have talented players and that we're not being overlooked.  I remember telling Derek that I wanted to be one of the first players to make it somewhere from this program, and I think I've shown that.  I think it shows that we're a great program and we're bringing in extremely talented players.  It's a huge moment for the University to show that we're talented and we're not going to be overlooked anymore."
 
"We're excited, not only for her but for what it does for the University of Idaho women's soccer program," Pittman said.  "Hopefully this is the first of many of our players that is able to go on to play at that next level.  We wish her the best and we know that she'll do a great job for Team USA."
 
Battan wrapped up her career with Idaho last season, helping the Vandals to their second consecutive Big Sky Regular Season Championship and earning All-Big Sky First Team accolades.  In her career, Battan netted 20 goals, the fourth most in program history.  She is one of three Vandals in program history to score at least 10 goals in a season, doing so during Idaho's incredible 2015 campaign.
 
The Pacific Northwest will be well represented in Taipei, with athletes from Washington State, Gonzaga and Western Washington making the squad.  A number of other Power Five programs are also represented on the roster, including Oklahoma, Kentucky and Colorado.
 
Team USA will be coached by another PNW legend, in Cliff McCrath.  McCrath led Seattle Pacific University for 37 years, winning five national championships.
 
Fans can stay up-to-date on all things Idaho soccer by following the team on Twitter and Instagram, @VandalsSoccer, or on Facebook by searching Idaho Vandals Women's Soccer.

For more information on Idaho Athletics, visit GoVandals.com.  Fans can also find Idaho on Twitter and Instagram, @Idaho_Vandals, or on Facebook by searching Idaho Vandals.