LAYING THE FOUNDATION

With 96 career appearances, D Kelly Rowland remains one of the most experienced Seminoles in program history. Rowland had a balanced game as a tough defender and clutch scorer, recording at least three goals and 10 points every season. FSU also made their first three College Cup appearances with Rowland on the roster. She shined especially bright in her senior campaign of 2006, when the team asked Rowland to fill various roles — including forward, midfielder, defender and goalkeeper. Rowland netted the first goal of a blowout win over Jacksonville in the first round of the NCAA Tournament, then came up with the game’s lone goal to defeat No. 15 Illinois in the Sweet 16. Rowland also assisted on the only Seminole goal in the College Cup Final Four, with FSU ultimately falling to No. 1 Notre Dame. “I hope that we’re back each and every year,” Rowland said of the College Cup experience. “I hope that we set the cornerstone and the foundation for Florida State to win the national championship.” At the end of her career, Rowland’s 53 points (17 goals, 19 assists) placed her among the best scoring defenders in program history. And yes, Rowland’s presence set the foundation for multiple championships in Tallahassee!