Two Cavaliers Finalists for Soccer Buzz Honors

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Nov. 20, 2003

CHARLOTTESVILLE – Two members of the Virginia women’s soccer team were named finalists for player of the year honors by Soccer Buzz magazine Thursday morning. Second-year midfielder Kelly Hammond (Bowie, Md.) is one of 12 finalists for Player of the Year honors, while first-year defender Becky Sauerbrunn (St. Louis, Mo.) is one of 12 finalists for Freshman of the Year honors.

Hammond was a key part of the Cavaliers’ offense in 2003, leading the team in goals (12), points (30), and game-winning goals (6). Her goal and points totals were each the seventh highest in school history, while her game-winning goal total ranks second for a season at UVa She was honored for her play with first team All-ACC honors earlier this month, while during the season Hammond twice earned Team of the Week honors from both Soccer Buzz and Soccer America, and ACC Player of the Week honors once.

Sauerbrunn made an immediate impact for the Cavaliers during her first season. She played every minute this year while anchoring a Virginia defense that posted nine shutouts and allowed just 0.82 goals and 7.0 shots per game. Offensively, Sauerbrunn recorded two assists during her rookie season. She has already been recognized for her play by the ACC, being named conference Freshman of the Year and earning second team All-ACC honors.

Hammond and Sauerbrunn helped Virginia to a 12-5-4 record and reach the second round of the NCAA Tournament in 2003. They are two of the 17 Cavaliers on this season’s roster with eligibility remaining.