GRAND FORKS, N.D. - University of North Dakota softball head coach Sami Strinz announced today the signing of Jessica Loiacano to a national letter of intent to play for the Fighting Sioux beginning in 2012.

"We are pleased to add Jessica to the roster next season," Strinz said. "She will add more power and depth to our lineup. She can play just about anywhere on the field. Jessica will immediately contribute to our success as we continue to chase conference championships throughout our transition."

A Temple City, Calif., native, Loiacano was a four-year letterwinner for Temple City High School where she won numerous team and league awards including Most Valuable Player, Offensive Player of the Year, First Team All-League and Rookie of the Year as a freshman.

Loiacano also competed for the So Cal Commotion 18U traveling team in 2009-10 and helped lead them to a championship in the Triple Crown Qualifier in 2010. She was the team captain both years.

The 5-inch, 5-foot utility player is the daughter of James and Cindy Loiacano.

­~ Go Sioux ~