PROVO, Utah (ABC-4 Sports) - University of New Mexico head women’s soccer coach Kit Vela announced today that junior defender Elizabeth Lambert has been suspended indefinitely for her actions in Thursday’s match against BYU in the semifinals of the Mountain West Conference Championship in Provo, Utah.
Effective immediately, Lambert is prohibited from participating in all team practices, competition and conditioning activities. As a junior, it is unclear whether or not Lambert will be able to resume activities with the team next season.
On Wednesday, Lambert was seen punching BYU's Carlee Payne in the back, and she pulled BYU's Kassidy Shumway to the ground by her ponytail. Lambert also kicked a ball into the face of another Cougar player. Lamber was eventually given a red card ejection.
“I am deeply and wholeheartedly regretful for my actions,” said Lambert. “My actions were uncalled for. I let my emotions get the best of me in a heated situation. I take full responsibility for my actions and accept any punishment felt necessary from the coaching staff and UNM administration. This is in no way indicative of my character or the soccer player that I am. I am sorry to my coaches and teammates for any and all damages I have brought upon them. I am especially sorry to BYU and the BYU women’s soccer players that were personally affected by my actions. I have the upmost respect for the BYU women’s soccer program and its players.”
“Liz is a quality student-athlete, but in this instance her actions clearly crossed the line of fair play and good sportsmanship,” said Vela.
“Liz’s conduct on the field against BYU was completely inappropriate,” said UNM Vice President for Athletics Paul Krebs. “There is no way to defend her actions.”
BYU athletic director Tom Holmoe also released a statement, saying he was satisfied with the way Krebs promptly handled the situation.
