British imports Yasmin and Mia Evans, two of the centerpieces of Allen Community College’s remarkable turnaround in women’s soccer, are moving on to continue their education.
The Red Devil sophomores signed letters of intent to attend West Virginia State University next year.
“It’s a great opportunity,” Mia Evans said. “We wanted to stay together, but if we didn’t, it wasn’t a huge issue. But this will allow us to stay together.”
The Evanses arrived at Allen mid-pandemic, with the Red Devils coming off a winless 2019 campaign.
All they did was help lead Allen to back-to-back Region VI championships, including the school’s first-ever trip to the NJCAA National Tournament last May.
A 2-0 loss to Northeast Community College in the North Plains District Championship prevented a repeat trip to nationals, but still left the Evanses overjoyed with their Allen experience.
“I loved it here,” Mia Evans said. “It’s been a great two years. Or 1½ years.”
The “1½ years” makes note of their late arrival on campus because of COVID-19 protocols that pushed the soccer season to the 2021 spring semester.
Nevertheless “It’s been great being a part of it.”
Mia Evans scored three goals with seven assists over the two seasons, while Yasmin racked up nine goals with five assists.
The Red Devils went a combined 26-5-2 during their time on the squad.
Allen head coach Jeremy McGinnis praised the Shrewsberry natives for their leadership.
“Jasmin and Mia were players who never came off the field,” McGinnis said. “They held each other accountable, and they held the team accountable, on and off the field.
“In this day and age, people complain about problems. They were always focused on finding solutions. If you didn’t come out every day and bring your ‘A’ game, they’re gonna let you know.”
While at West Virginia State, based in Charleston, both will continue their work toward education degrees.
Mia hopes to get into teaching special needs students. Yasmin has her sights set on coaching.
