Coach Boughton Inks Pair to Soccer & Lacrosse

Erie Community College head women's soccer and lacrosse coach Gary Boughton filled three positions to two of his programs with the signing of Autumn Farino and Grace Beichner.

While Farino will improve the Kats' depth at the goalkeeper position in soccer, Beichner will become a member of both Boughton's soccer and lacrosse teams as a center back on the former and at the attack position for the latter.

Farino was a six-year member of Maryvale High School's varsity soccer team where she played a prominent role in the cage for the Flyers. The Cheektowaga native was named to the All-ECIC III team four consecutive seasons, including first team as a senior.

"Autumn is someone who has the ability to come in and create competition for us in goal next year, which by virtue makes all of our goalkeepers better, and therefore our team improves immediately. She is strong, athletic, and commands her team very well. I'm extremely excited we're adding someone of her ability as well as character to our program," Boughton said.

Goalkeeper and assistant coach Kailee DeFranks added, "I'm extremely excited to add Autumn into the mix next season. We've seen some of what she can do in high school this year, and I'm excited to see her potential grow with us. I can't wait to get her here and to work with her starting this fall."

Beichner is a two-time All-ECIC II defender from Williamsville East High School. While the Williamsville native commanded the Flames' back line, her team compiled a 52-7-3 record in the process over three seasons. She also helped captured two Section VI Class A championships for East's soccer team, while accumulating additional accolades as an All-ECIC attacker for the Flames' lacrosse team.

"Grace is a player I am extremely excited about working with over the next two years. We'll be spending a lot of time together as she is sure to be an immediate impact player for us on both the soccer and lacrosse fields. Grace brings a physical presence to the field, and at the same time is someone who is very composed for an athlete her size at 5-foot-10. She is a well-liked, well-respected leader on her teams, and will certainly be someone we rely on for those qualities here at ECC. With her commitment we've significantly improved two programs at once."