SEATTLE (April 13) – James Coggan of San Jose, Jeff Hallenbeck of Redmond, Wash., and Drew Macha of Eugene, Ore., became Seattle Pacific University’s first three men’s soccer recruits to sign national letters of intent for next fall.

“These three young men not only make us a better team immediately, but they are exceptionally strong students with great character,” noted Cliff McCrath, the Falcons’ head coach of the three high school seniors. “We’re extremely excited about their decision to commit to us.”

Coggan, a 5-foot-11 forward, scored 17 goals, added 13 assists and was West Catholic Athletic League offensive player of the year as a senior for Valley Christian High School, which was a Central Coast Section quarterfinalist with a record of 18-3-5. He was a unanimous all-CCS first team selection. Coggan also plays for the Santa Clara Ruckus, which advanced to the U-19 semifinals of the prestigious Dallas Cup earlier this month, scoring twice and adding one assist in the tournament.

“A bright, crafty player like James gives us a dynamic presence up front,” said McCrath. “He finds different ways to score and he’s a fierce competitor, who’s accustomed to winning. We believe he’s one of the best forwards to come out of Northern California, and can contribute right away.”

Hallenbeck scored 21 goals his past two seasons at Inglemoor High School. He was a first team all-Kingco and all-Eastside forward and the league’s top scorer each of the last three seasons. As a junior, the Vikings advanced to the state 4A quarterfinals. Hallenbeck, a 5-9 forward, played for Tynecastle II, the Washington U-16 club and U-17 Tampa Bay Sun Bowl champions, both in 2002. He now plays for FCA Parma, coached by former SPU player Brad Elmenhurst.

“Jeff’s a smart player with pace, and someone who makes those around him better players,” said McCrath. “We believe he can contribute right away, and give us some offensive punch.”

Macha, a 6-1 defender, was Oregon’s Gatorade Player of the Year and 3A player of the year for Marist High School last fall after scoring 14 goals and 13 assists while leading the Spartans to the Midwestern League title and a state quarterfinal advancement. He plays for the Oregon United Orange, state champions last year and Dallas Cup participants. His great uncle, was a member of the Czech national team from 1937-45. Off the field, Macha is a National Merit semifinalist.

“We’ve followed Drew for some time now, and feel that he’ll provide both leadership and quality play to our backline,” McCrath said. “His top level club experience and coaching will enable him to challenge for playing time immediately.”

SPU, a five-time NCAA Division II champion, returns 10 starters from a team which went 9-8-2 last season. It has qualified for the playoffs 28 times while posting 33 consecutive winning seasons.