As a rule, people from Columbus - the home of Ohio State - aren't looked upon very highly in Ann Arbor. But there is an exception to every rule, and sophomore Katie Miller might be it.

A year ago, Miller was dominating the Midwest club soccer circuit. Now she's scoring game-winning goals for the women's soccer team.

"It's totally a dream to play," Miller said.

Miller ended her illustrious high school career with numerous accolades. She was part of three Ohio Capital Conference Champions, a member of the Ohio Capital Conference first team in 2004 and a Wendy's High School Heisman Nominee.

She decided to come to Michigan and join the club soccer team, with no idea if varsity soccer was even a possibility. But after talking with Michigan coach Debbie Rademacher and befriending some players on the team, Miller attended a February tryout.

"I was terrified," Miller said. "I was trying to get in shape all of January."

All the hard work paid off.

Miller's speed, quickness and great passing touch impressed Rademacher, and the coach made Miller the newest member of the women's soccer team this past spring. It didn't take long for Miller's teammates to appreciate her presence.

"Katie is the one of the hardest working players on our team," senior captain Judy Coffman said. "Any passers-by would notice she is working hard on the field. Coming from club soccer to varsity soccer takes a lot of confidence."

Miller gained instant respect from her teammates by participating in the same conditioning drills as the rest of the team and doing so without complaint.

Off the field, Miller's presence has been part of the reason the team has become more positive and has had better chemistry, Coffman said.

"(Miller) gets along so well," she said. "And to come in and fit in this well doesn't come easy."

Rademacher added: "She fits right into the team, she jokes around, she is able to make fun of herself, and just has a great sense of humor."

Miller's presence has also been felt in games.

In the fifth game of the season, against Dayton, Miller's first-half goal put Michigan up 1-0, and ended up as the game-winner.

"I was shocked," Miller said. "It was really exciting, just amazing. I was happy to be able to put one up for the team. I love doing whatever I can for the team."

That attitude foreshadows what could be a very bright future.

"Her work ethic is admired by the rest of the team," Coffman said. "If she continues, a leadership role is in her future. She leads by example and is constantly working hard."

Miller is the first player Rademacher has coached that has come up from the club team and scored a goal. After Miller's early success, Rademacher expects Miller to contribute to the offensive attack and to help score more goals.

"She wants that role and now can be a regular contributor," Rademacher said.

And just in case you were wondering if Miller has a soft spot for Ohio State, she describes her feelings concisely.

"Not even a little bit of loyalty," she said.