Rachel Martini has been selected to participate in the 2014 Illinois Olympic Development Program (ODP) Combine this June in Rockford. Martini was selected from a large group of soccer players across the state following a four-day tryout process held this past winter.

The Illinois ODP, is the initial step in youth soccer for identifying players who may eventually participate on the state, national and Olympic teams. Each year, the program looks to select the best, young soccer players in Illinois and to provide them the experiences of competing at the highest levels of competition.

"This accomplishment places (Rachel) among the elite players in her age group in Illinois," commented Daniel Artman, Director of Coaching for the Hoffman United Soccer Club. "It is the result of her hard work, determination and technical excellence."

Martini advanced from the Hoffman Estates Park District's recreational in-house league three years ago and has been a part of the Hoffman United soccer program since. Martini's U12 Lady Hawks team coach, Gary Anderson, is glad to see that Martini's commitment to the game has earned her some accolades. "Rachel is as good an athlete as I have ever coached," said Anderson. "She always gives 100 percent effort in training and on game day and I am very happy to see her recognized for that hard work."

Martini and Hoffman United U10 Thunder's Abby Cox were both invited to participate in the ODP's interstate regional friendly competition in early April. Both girls helped their respective teams go undefeated during the one-day event, which featured some of the best players from Illinois, Indiana, and Kentucky.

"The Club is proud of both Abby and Rachel, who have earned their invitations to such an elite program. We are also pleased to see Club's plan to focus on technical development, which has been implemented by our hardworking trainers and coaches, coming to fruition," added Artman.