SOMERSET, N.J. University of Denver women’s soccer assistant coach Katie Hooker signed a contract to play with Sky Blue FC of the Women’s Professional Soccer team as a developmental player, Sky Blue FC announced. A former WUSA player, Hooker joins Sky Blue FC for the team’s exhibition match against the Colorado Force on Wednesday night.

Hooker was originally drafted by the Los Angeles Sol in the sixth round of the WPS 2009 Draft (38th pick overall) but was released right before the Sol’s first match. Formerly Katie Antongiovanni, she was drafted by the WUSA’s Atlanta Beat in 2003 before finishing the final season of the league with the San Jose CyberRays.

“We are excited to add Katie to our team, as she will bring some depth, versatility and experience to our flanks,” Sky Blue FC Head Coach Kelly Lindsey said. “Her coaching and playing background, along with her work rate and mentality, will bring a unique personality and positive addition to our developing culture here at Sky Blue FC.”

Prior to getting drafted by the Sol, Hooker earned a selection to the W-League All-Western Conference team in 2008 as a member of the Real Colorado Cougars. She has also played in the W-League for the Mile High Edge and Mile High Mustangs in Colorado and in the WPSL for the Denver Diamonds.

Hooker is currently entering her sixth season as an assistant coach at the University of Denver, where she starred as a player in 2001 and 2002 after transferring from Iowa State. She was named to the All-Sun Belt Conference first team in both of her seasons at Denver and was also named the SBC Most Outstanding Player in 2002. At Iowa State, she earned the Big 12 Rookie of the Year honor in 1999 and All-Big 12 first team honors in 2000.

Sky Blue FC takes on the Colorado Force on Wednesday at 4:30 p.m. MT as part of the 3rd Annual Women's Soccer Celebration Doubleheader prior to the Colorado Rapids match against FC Dallas.