Bowling Green, Ky. — Western Kentucky University soccer head coach Jason Neidell has been selected to coach the USA National Team at the 18th World Maccabiah Games in Israel in the summer of 2009. The veteran coach of the event will lead the women’s open squad — which brought home gold medals from the Pan American Games in Janurary 2008.

“I am honored to represent Team USA at the 2009 Maccabiah World Games in Israel, and I feel fortunate to have the opportunity to travel again with Maccabi USA,” said Neidell.

Neidell — who was selected the Sun Belt Conference coach of the year for 2007 — will be assisted by Abby Richter of Kent State University.

“My experiences in Chile, Israel, and Argentina have been extraordinary both professionally and culturally, and I look forward to building on these experiences, as well as the strong relationships and camaraderie that is characteristic of our women’s soccer teams,” stated Neidell. “I expect the 2009 squad to be the most talented women’s soccer team to ever represent Maccabi, and we look forward to competing for the gold.”

Athletes interested in participating in the event should contact Coach Neidell at the WKU Women’s Soccer office. The number is (270)745-6563 or by email at jason.neidell@wku.edu. Additional information is also available online at www.maccabiusa.com.

The World Maccabiah Games will take place July 13-23, 2009 in Israel and will be the world’s third largest international athletic competition. The Games produce 9000 of the world’s greatest athletes from six continents and over 60 countries.

Neidell and the Lady Toppers will open the exhibition season on Aug. 14th against Memphis. Kick-off is slated to take place at 1 p.m. (CST) at the WKU Soccer Complex.