BARBOURVILLE, Ky. - Union College women's soccer signee Patricia Nardy took part of workouts as a pool member of the Brazilian National Team as a goalkeeper during the July.
"The experience was the best thing in my life so far," Nardy said with a smile. The incoming junior is from Sao Paulo.

The chance to play with their national team is a goal of most athletes and Nardy has experienced it.

In fact, she saw 30 minutes in goal during Brazil's friendly match on July 11 against Minas Gerais. Brazil went on to win 7-0 and she recorded two saves.

The contest was a prelude to Brazil's trip to the Sul Americano tournament next year which is a qualifying tournament for the Olympics and Women's World Cup.

Before the match, Nardy and the other 21 players took part in demanding practices. Nardy commented on the faster pace in the international competition.

The opportunity to play with the Brazilian team also added some national pride to Nardy.

"When I put the Brazilian jersey on, I thought ‘I can't believe I'm here'," Nardy added, "then I stepped onto the field which was one of the best feelings I've ever had."

Thanks to the opportunity, Nardy is now among a group of Brazilian players that could be called to participate with the national team at any time.

"I would not be upset to lose her to train with the Brazilian team in preparation for their international competitions," Union head coach Jason Lanham added. "I know this has been a goal of hers for years."

In the last two Olympic Games, 2004 and 2008, Brazil has finished with silver medals. The previous two Olympic Games, 1996 and 2000, Brazil finished fourth in both. Brazil lost in the 2007 FIFA Women's World Cup championship match to Germany.

When talking about Nardy's opportunity, Lanham was proud of his signee. "This is a testament to her work ethic. Thanks to her hard work, she now has a foot in the door with the Brazilian National Team."

Nardy comes to Union from NCAA Division II member Northeastern State (Okla.) University. While there she was a two-time All Lone Star Conference team member. Nardy was on the conference's second team as a freshman and first team last season.

While at Northeastern State for two years, Nardy went 10-15-5 with one shutout. She stopped 227 shots and allowed 58 goals in 38 matches. Nardy started 28 times at Northeastern State, including 13 as a freshman. Included in her 28 starts were all of Northeastern State's LSC matches.