Justin Ratcliff Class: Freshman Hometown: Miami, Fla. High School: American H.S. Height / Weight: 5-11 / 155 Position: Defense

Will contend for one of the starting positions on defense...talented and versatile defender who can play anywhere in the Irish backfield...brings a great deal of maturity to program in his first year with the experience he has gained at all levels.

HIGH SCHOOL AND PERSONAL DATA: Member of Under-18 National Team...competed for that team in international tournaments in Slovakia and Russia...three-year starter and four-year letterwinner at American...led high school squad to four consecutive District 13-6A titles and two regional crowns...helped American to state in final scholastic season...as a junior and senior was named first-team all-state and all-city...as a junior, his high school team was ranked first nationally after posting a 31-1 record...anchored a defense that allowed just eight goals all season...scored 15 goals as a defender in senior season...has played for the Miami Strike Force club team since age 12 and has helped that team advance to national semifinals on several occasions...born April 5, 1981...enrolled in the First Year of Studies.