The Patriot League women’s soccer season kicked off with a bang as Army West Point and Bucknell dominated the first set of weekly awards. The Black Knights‘ senior forward Kaelan Bradley and goalkeeper Sage Strohman both received accolades, while Bucknell’s senior defender Katie Schiano and freshman midfielder Katie Connell also earned recognition. Boston University’s junior midfielder Giulianna Gianino rounded out the honorees with an impressive performance in the opening weekend.
Bradley, a senior forward from Williston Park, N.Y., was named the Patriot League Women’s Soccer Offensive Player of the Week after scoring a goal and providing an assist in Army West Point’s 3-0 victory over Manhattan. She showcased her skills by converting a penalty kick and setting up a teammate’s goal, demonstrating her importance to the team’s success.
Gianino, a junior midfielder from Norwell, Mass., was honored as the Patriot League Women’s Soccer Midfielder of the Week for her stellar performance in Boston University’s first two games. She scored three goals, including a two-goal game against Northwestern, becoming the first Terrier in 12 seasons to achieve such a feat. Gianino’s impact in the midfield was crucial for her team’s success.
Schiano, a senior defender from New Albany, Ohio, was recognized as the Patriot League Women’s Soccer Defensive Player of the Week for her outstanding contributions to Bucknell’s defense. She played a key role in holding opponents to just two goals in the opening weekend, helping the Bison secure a win and a draw. Schiano’s defensive prowess was instrumental in her team’s strong start to the season.
Strohman, a senior goalkeeper from La Mirada, Calif., was named the Patriot League Women’s Soccer Goalkeeper of the Week after recording 17 saves and allowing just one goal in Army West Point’s first two games. She delivered a standout performance in a 14-save effort against Wake Forest, showcasing her shot-stopping abilities. Strohman’s consistency and leadership in goal were crucial for her team’s success.
Connell, a freshman midfielder from West Vancouver, B.C., Canada, received the Patriot League Women’s Soccer Rookie of the Week award for her impressive debut for Bucknell. She scored her first collegiate goal in a 1-1 tie against Delaware, showcasing her potential as a rising star in the league. Connell’s impact on the field was a bright spot for the Bison in the opening weekend.
In addition to the weekly award winners, several players received honorable mentions for their performances during the first week of the season. Players like Teresa Deda, Catherine Apker, Katrina Santelli, Nadia Zaffanella, Baylee DeSmit, Elizabeth Gallagher, and Brigid Mulholland all received recognition for their contributions to their respective teams.
Overall, the first week of Patriot League women’s soccer action showcased the talent and competitiveness of the teams in the conference. With standout performances from players across the league, fans can expect an exciting and competitive season ahead. Stay tuned for more thrilling matchups and impressive displays of skill as the season progresses.