ERIE — Amanda Sharbaugh didn't know what to expect when she chose to play soccer at Gannon University.

Being on the cusp as the program's career goals scorer leader — during her junior season — certainlywasn't one of them.

Sharbaugh, a graduate of Knoch High School, entered Saturday's home game against Indiana (Pa.) needing just two goals to tie for the most career goals (34) and needed 11 more points to set that standard (90) as well.

Both marks are currently held by Erin Cray (1997-2000).

" I knew I could make an impact," said Sharbaugh. "I was excited to come in as a freshman and start. I had high expectations."

Colin Petersen, the Golden Knights coach now in his 11th season, admits he knew the potential was there, but Sharbaugh has far exceeded what he could have imagined.

"I knew she was good, but she's the kind of player who changes a program," said Petersen. "She's that good.

"We knew she would help us on the offensive side, but on the off-the-field stuff, too ... She has an enthusiasm and passion for the game. She wants to win," Petersen added.

Sharbaugh has played in all 48 games in her time with Gannon. She had 15 goals and five assists (35 points) as a freshman and followed up with 10 goals and seven assists (27) last year.

This year, Sharbaugh has seven goals and three assists.

"I don't think about (the record) much in the game ... I'd kind of like to get it over with," said Sharbaugh. "I haven't scored in the past four or five games."

Still, Petersen has a bona fide leader with Sharbaugh.

"She's one of those players that has the ability and confidence to run at the defense," said Petersen. "She makes things happen, on and off the ball."

The Golden Knights have gotten off to a slow start this year with a 3-5-2 overall record and 2-5-1 in PSAC-West action, something that wasn't expected.

"We came in expecting to do well," said Sharbaugh. "We came in the past two years and did well. We're a young team and I'm still optimistic."

Said Petersen, "We had a lot higher expectations. We have not been consistent. We hope as the season goes on, we will improve. We're still working hard."

Petersen looks for that leadership from Sharbaugh, who admits she's ready for that role.

"I'm looking to get better by growing more as a player mentally," said Sharbaugh. "As you grow older, you want to be a leader."

With PSAC Scholar Athlete Awards and all-PSAC and region honors, Sharbaugh has excelled in her first two seasons and still has 1Z\x seasons remaining.

"Hands down," Petersen said, "she's the best players we've had in the program."