Jan. 4, 2013

MEMPHIS, Tenn. - Memphis women's soccer midfielder/forward Christabel Oduro was named to Canada's National Team roster for the Yongchuan Cup in China beginning January 12, the organization announced Friday.

"This is a tremendous honor for Christabel and we are extremely excited for her," head coach Brooks Monaghan said. "Last spring she got called in for a friendly against Brazil and I think this speaks volumes of her ability. We hope that this experience helps her gain confidence and develops her leadership qualities."

The 21-players selected for the camp and international competition depart on Sunday and Canada begins competition on January 12 against China at 2:00 a.m. (CT). The Canadian side plays three matches in the competition, with the remaining opposition being Korea Republic on January 14 at 7:00 a.m. (CT) and Norway at 5:00 a.m. January 16.

The Yongcchuan Cup is the first project of the 2013 international season, preparing teams for the ultimate goal of the 2015 FIFA World Cup in Canada.

"The 2015 FIFA World Cup is just around the corner and for her to be in this camp is tremendous," Monaghan said. "She has all the potential in the world. We always want to give every player the chance to perform at this high level such as the opportunity Christabel has before her."

Oduro, two-time Conference USA Offensive Player of the Year, will enter her senior season at the University of Memphis this fall. The Brampton, Ontario, Canada native ranks third all-time with 32 goals in her career and is also third in career points with 83.