Missouri State

At MSU: Joe Welch saw action in 14 matches a year ago and will look to again provide depth in the backfield in 2006.

2005: Welch started one match as a freshman, picking up the start in a 5-1 conference victory over Evansville (10/19). He picked up his first collegiate point with an assist against IPFW (9/17) in a MSU win.

Background: An Overland Park, Kan., native, Joe Welch played all over the field in his prep career. Welch helped lead the Blue Valley West Jaguars, under coach Alex Aiman, to a 16-5 record and a Kansas class 5A state title as a senior. Welch posted 24 points on seven goals and 10 assists as a senior and ranks second in all-time career points at BVWHS. He was a first-team all-state pick in 2004. As a junior, Welch scored five goals and added six assists in 13 starts and posted seven goals and nine assists as a sophomore. He started all 17 games as a freshman. He played club soccer for the Kansas City Attack under coach Emilio John.

Personal: Joe M. Welch is the son of Monte and Cindy Welch. He was born July 10, 1986.