Pagano signs to play at North Idaho College

SANDPOINT — She’s been a mainstay in the Sandpoint soccer attack since her freshman year, and now she’ll take her high-level soccer chops to the college level, as senior Meghan Pagano signed a letter of intent to play women’s soccer next fall at North Idaho College.

Pagano, who says winning state as a freshman was her fondest soccer memory to date, will have all her tuition, books and fees paid for next fall.

NIC head coach Dan Hogan, in his 10th year stewarding the Cardinal women’s program, has been watching Pagano tear up the pitch for years in North Idaho, both at the high school and club level.

“Athletically, she’s got good skills, and she’s very competitive. She doesn’t want to lose,” described Hogan. “I expect her to push for a starting spot right away and she’ll be an attacking player.”

Pagano has been playing soccer year-around for years, and admits she felt burned out on the sport at times. After the high school season ended, she stepped away from the game for several months, and realized how much she missed it.

“I’ve been playing soccer since I was three, I can’t not play soccer. I always dreamed of playing in college, but I never thought it would happen,” said Pagano, who is thrilled to be reunited on the pitch with former teammate Ellie Engel, who will be a sophomore at NIC next fall. “I’ve never had chemistry with a player like with Ellie; it’s just there.”

Pagano plans to study education, and if all goes well in her two year stint at NIC, continue playing her favorite sport at a Division 1 school.

Sandpoint head coach Conor Baranski thinks Pagano’s vast skill set will transfer well to the next level.

“Her skill, vision and player savvy is a step above most high school players,” said Baranski of his all-league performer. “She’s a proven goal scorer, but she’s also a complete offensive player.”