JACKSON, Miss. – Mississippi Blues SC did not have to look far from home for its first player signings.

Goalkeeper Kat Stratton and defender Deanna Green signed to play for the Blues during the 2018 WPSL season, the club announced Monday. The two signees are the first players to join the expansion club.

Stratton is from Tupelo, Mississippi and finished her senior season at the University of Alabama this past fall. She started 38 matches during her Crimson Tide career.

"Kat epitomizes everything we are looking for in a Blues player," Blues coach Jordon Beedle said. "The experience she gained playing in the SEC at Alabama will be invaluable. This signing shows the commitment our club has in signing the best players Mississippi has to offer."

Green recently finished her freshman season at the University of South Alabama. She is from Madison, Mississippi.

"I had the pleasure of coaching Deanna for two years (at the club level), and I'm excited to get another opportunity," Beedle said. "After a fantastic freshman year at South Alabama, she will give us versatility and quality."

The Blues' first WPSL match is May 26 vs. Baton Rouge SC.