By Kevin Peterson | Photo by Patil Khakhamian
A few weeks ago, the Colorado College women’s soccer program wrapped up the 2019 season with its annual banquet. Every year, the coaches honor seniors and present awards for various accomplishments. Although this year the awards were presented virtually, the Tigers were still able to keep their long-held tradition and celebrate their amazing season.
The awards were chosen based on voting by the players and coaches. Lexi Porter ’23 earned Rookie of the Year for her incredible first season with the program, having started 12 out of 17 games and finishing No. 3 on the team for minutes played. The first-year defender helped the Tigers by contributing to six overall shutouts this season.
“It was an honor to receive two awards. Being able to play and start as a first-year player was an amazing experience,” Porter said. “I was happy to be able to contribute to the team’s success so early on in my career at CC.”
Porter also shared Most Improved Player with Hailee Rasmussen ’23, who started 16 out of 17 games and even grabbed her first collegiate goal against San Diego State. Both players were named to the Academic All-Mountain West Team for earning a 3.0 or higher GPA during the fall semester. A total of 17 CC women’s soccer players were recognized for their academic accomplishments.
Jacqui Hand ’22, who led the team in goals this year with nine goals — five of them game-winning goals — earned honors for both offensive player of the year and most valuable player. Hand was honored for her dangerous scoring ability by being named to the second team all-Mountain West and the United Soccer Coaches’ all-Pacific Region team.
Camille Weaver ’21, who led the team in minutes played, was recognized for leading the team to six shutouts by receiving the award for defensive player of the year. Weaver was one of the few players to start every game this season. Kayla Montoya ’22 received the Stephen J. Paul Award, named after the founder of the women’s soccer program at Colorado College. The award recognizes characteristics such as hard work and dedication.
“After getting injured my freshman year, I was very excited to come back and play this year,” Montoya said. “I was really happy I got to make an impact on the team. It was an honor to get the award.”
CC finished seventh in the Mountain West this season with a 10-7 overall record. The Tigers look forward to next season with hopes of more success in the Mountain West.