Heyboer, Spartans Dominate Oakland in Season Opener, 5-1

Aug. 22, 2008

ROCHESTER, Mich. - With the help of three goals from freshman Laura Heyboer, the Michigan State women's soccer team defeated host Oakland University, 5-1, in its season opener, Friday, Aug. 22. Making her collegiate debut, Heyboer, assisted on the game's first goal and then scored three consecutive goals in the second half.

Heyboer's first collegiate goal came on a penalty kick in the second half and she followed it with two more in the 49th and 66th minutes, respectively.

"We encourage Laura to bring her game, which is a special game, to the college level with confidence," said MSU head coach Tom Saxton. "I think she shared responsibilities with her teammates, but when we need her she's going to have to do what she has to do."

The Spartans wasted little time getting the scoring started as Lauren Sinacola took a pass from Heyboer inside the box just 42 seconds into the game and beat Oakland goalkeeper Kim Herbst. Cara Freeman made it 2-0 midway through the second half before the Grizzlies were able to cut the deficit in half in the 32nd minute.

The game also served as a cancer fundraiser for five-year-old Adalin Farnum, the oldest daughter of MSU associate head coach Tammy Farnum. In lieu of admission, the Oakland Athletic Department accepted donations and held a silent auction with all proceeds going to support the care of Adalin Farnum. Nearly $4,500 was raised on the Farnum's behalf.

"This was overwhelming," noted Saxton, regarding the fundraiser. "Coach O'Shea has been a longtime friend of mine and Tammy's, and for him to come up with this idea was brilliant. It was very generous of him. I know Tammy and her family and our whole program are so appreciative."

The Spartans (1-0) travel to Chicago next Friday (Aug. 29) to take on DePaul at 4 p.m. EDT.