Loyal Cougars

Brianna Hatch commits to join breakout sister Ashley on BYU pitch

BYU fans are used to cheering for siblings on the field, from the Heimulis in the 80’s, to the Reids in the 90’s to Mitch and Marcus Mathews today. Starting in 2015, the Hatch sisters hope to be BYU’s next set of sibling athletes.

Midfielder Brianna Hatch has given a verbal commitment to join her sister, current freshman striker Ashley Hatch, on the BYU women’s soccer team in 2015.

Ashley just played in her first official college game, scoring a goal in BYU’s 3-1 victory over Cal State Fullerton on Friday night at South Field.

Brianna was impressed with her sister’s debut performance. “When she missed the open shot she had, I just wanted her to take another one. It was nice to see her redeem herself,” Briana said. “She took the chances that she got.”

Should Brianna and Ashley see the field together in a few years, it won’t be the first time they have played together. Younger sister Brianna played on her older sister’s club team, Southern California’s Legends FC, even though she is two years younger than most of the players.  Brianna’s commitment means that at least 12 of the players on the 2013 Under 18 Legends FC club team will be playing collegiate soccer, including at new WCC addition Pacific.

“I love taking on competition, so BYU’s move to the WCC made me want me go there more,” Brianna said.

“When I was offered a scholarship, I thought, ‘My work paid off.’ I was ecstatic,” Brianna said. She recently called head coach Jennifer Rockwood to commit.

Brianna also considered Penn State and UCSD, but says, “I’m excited to play for BYU.”