Rebecca Hornbacher expressed excitement in the 2006 women’s soccer recruiting class in a statement on Wednesday.

The fourth-year head coach said she felt it was one of the most athletic classes in the program’s history.

She also said she didn’t believe the class was affected by her pending legal investigation. Hornbacher is facing OWI charges, but has yet to be tried.

“Our recruiting class, both the parents and the student athletes, have shown support for me through this situation,” Hornbacher said.

“They believe in me as the leader of this program and their commitments are solid.”

Hornbacher said she sent letters to the athletes’ families following the December arrest. She lost a $9,000 salary increase and received an official letter of reprimand in her personal file.

“We are looking forward to building on a very successful 2005 season,” Hornbacher said.

Iowa State complemented seven returning starters with the nine-member class. Two of the signees were top athletes in the state of Iowa.

Cedar Rapids’ Elise Reid, a midfielder/forward prospect, was a finalist for Iowa Gatorade Player of the Year. Molly Lohry is expected to be a utility player, having been a multi-sport talent at Sioux City North.

“My staff has done a phenomenal job in the recruiting process, and I feel that this class adds a unique blend of tremendous athleticism, speed and dynamic play,” Hornbacher said.

“We have added strength in all positions.”

Hornbacher also said extracurricular activity and academic success is a common thread.

“These ladies are great students with excellent character and will be fine representatives of the soccer program at Iowa State University,” Hornbacher said.

– ISU Media Relations contributed to this article