MIAC Release
ST. PAUL, Minn. - The Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (MIAC) has announced the women's soccer award winners for 2009.
Kelsey Flaherty (Fr., Shoreview, Minn.) was given All-MIAC honors, while
Brittany Griffore (So., Maple Grove, Minn.) and
Carolyn Kishaba received All-MIAC Honorable Mention.
The Royals's
Kelci Schedler (Sr., Fond du Lac, Wis.) also made the All-MIAC Sportsmanship Team, whose members are selected by their coaches and teammates as individuals who demonstrate ideals of positive sportsmanship both on and off the field of competition.
In her first season, Flaherty played in 17 of the Royals' 18 games this year, coming in seventh on the team in points (11), third in shots (41), fourth in shots on goal (24), and scored the game winning goal in overtime against Gustavus. Beyond the numbers, Flaherty helped lead the midfield, setting up her teammates to score and causing frustration to defenders throughout the MIAC this season. Her aggressive play, combined with her leadership skill helped her earn the team Rookie of the Year award.
Griffore's season was record-setting as she led the Royals in goals, points, and shots on goal. Her 14 goals tied the school single-season record, and her 35 season points make her the new record holder for the Royals. She scored three game winning goals and scored the first goal in five matches this year. She played in 17 of the Royals 18 games and her 50 points through two seasons puts her fifth on the all-time list for Bethel women's soccer.
Kishaba transferred from 2008 national runner up Wheaton (Ill.) this year and made an immediate impact for the Royals. She tied for the team lead in assists with eight, and led Bethel in shots with 58. She racked up 20 points, scoring the game winning goal against UW-Superior early in the season, and was a steadying force in the midfield for Bethel all season long.
Beyond her sportsmanship on and off the field, Schedler was an integral part of the Royals' most successful campaign to date. As a senior captain and defender, she was a crucial reason for Bethel's record-setting nine shut outs. She was also the recipient of several team awards, including Hardest Worker, Royal Character, and Most Inspirational.