Azusa Pacific University Athletics

THIS YEAR: A talented and experienced player, senior Delina Papa is a returning starter from a defense that yielded just 10 goals in 22 games last year ... Will again play a key role in the Cougars' pursuits of GSAC and NAIA titles ... Rated a good athlete with speed and mental toughness ... Is known for her aggressive play.

2009 (junior):  Appeared in 22 games for the 19-2-2 Cougars who advanced to the semifinals of the NAIA national tournament in Decatur, Ala. ... Was a key member of a Cougar defense that produced 11 shutouts and allowed Azusa Pacific to outscore its final 10 opponents 24-4 ... Logged over 1,700 minutes of play, third most on the team ... 

2008 (Sophomore): Appeared in 11 games in her first season as a sophomore transfer to Azusa Pacific ... Took 1 shot on the season as a reserve defender ... Started 1 game.

OHIO STATE: Spent 2 seasons at NCAA Division I Ohio State University ... Redshirted her 2006 freshman season ... Played in a pair of the Buckeyes' Big Ten Conference wins over Illinois and Michigan State in 2007, helping Ohio State to an NCAA Tournament bid.

HIGH SCHOOL: Played 3 years of varsity soccer for head coach Tolga Yamez at Solon (Ohio) High ... Received 2-time All-Western Reserve honors her final two years as a Comet.

PERSONAL: Born Sep. 27, 1987, in Ohio ... Parents are Russell (business owner) and Debbie Papa ... Has 2 younger brothers (Russ, Nicholas) ... Majoring in applied exercise science ... Wants to pursue a career in physical therapy ... Enjoys coaching and working with children ... Lists hobbies as playing guitar and snowboarding.