Jeff Buddenbohn out of Sierra Madre, Calif., was named a NSCAA adidas All-American after playing as a central defender at St. Francis High School. The 6’4” defender has played on the Region IV ODP team for the last three seasons and the Cal South ODP team for the last four years.

“We expect him to come in and be our starting central defender,” Linenberger said. “He has a ton of experience, good size, good feet and skill on the ball. We think he is going to be a very good player.”

Sacramento State’s second signee is David Lopez out of Piner High School in Santa Rosa, Calif. The central midfielder has played on the Region IV ODP team the last two seasons and the Cal North ODP team the last three seasons.

“We expect David to come in and challenge for a starting spot as the defensive central midfielder. It will allow us to push Marco Ramirez (senior, central midfielder) up the field and into the attack. David is a smooth passer of the ball and has a great mind for the game.”

Andrew Gangnuss of Pleasanton, Calif., is the Hornets’ third signee. Gangnuss played goalkeeper for Amador Valley High School and has played for the Region IV ODP team and the Cal North ODP team.

“Andrew will be the back-up to Matt McDougall next year, but we also anticipate getting him some playing time,” Linenberger said. “After McDougall’s senior season (2005), we expect him to start for the next three years.”

The Hornets’ fourth signee is local product Zach Tuss out of Sacramento, Calif. He played central defender for Natomas High School and scored 12 goals his senior season.

“We think Zach is a fabulous athlete,” Linenberger said. “For both his high school and club team he would play in the defensive backfield if the team was trying to hold onto the lead and he would play up front if his team needed a goal. He will come in and challenge for some quality playing time and he has the ability to develop into a great college soccer player. He is big, strong and quick - just what we are looking for in the back.