As Tennessee Temple University continues rebuilding its athletic program, two former standouts at bigger area schools have come aboard as graduate assistants. Both want to do ministry work and are set to begin TTU seminary studies.

Former University of Tennessee at Chattanooga basketball leader Ricky Taylor has joined Brac Brady's men's basketball staff. Three-time NAIA soccer national champion goalkeeper Leah Wilson from Lee University is helping Emmanuel Awotula with Lady Crusaders soccer.

Wilson, who grew up in East Brainerd and starred previously for Chattanooga Christian School, has a similar outlook on her new position.

"I see it as an opportunity to start something with my life that helps younger girls," she said. "I bring a lot of intensity and competitiveness from Lee but also spiritual values, mixing a love of soccer with a love of the Lord. I love speaking, encouraging and sharing."

Awotula said he has known Wilson "since she was a kid" from local youth leagues -- having refereed with her as well as some games she played -- "and I'm definitely excited about having her help me. She played for a very good program and understands the game, and her excitement about soccer increases my excitement."

Specifically, Awotula noted, Wilson can give the goalkeepers attention he felt he failed to provide last year.