The Kalamazoo College women's soccer team earned some individual recognition on Friday before it heads to the MIAA Tournament. Senior Sarah George and junior Libby Munoz were both selected as a part of the All-MIAA First Team.
Munoz, a forward from Leland, Mich (Leland HS), is making her second straight appearance on the All-MIAA First Team. Munoz has started all 17 games for the Hornets upon returning from an injury in January. Her 26 points on the season are good for first on the team and second in the MIAA. Munoz heads into MIAA Tournament play tied for first place in goals with 12. Of her 12 goals, two were game-winners for the Hornets. Her consistency on offense has been crucial for the Hornets in each of the last two seasons. Munoz holds a .250 shot percentage which leads the MIAA among players with at least 20 shot attempts.
"It was fantastic to have both Sarah and Libby honored for their efforts throughout the past season," said Coach Bryan Goyings. "Libby continues to be a a dynamic attacking threat that poses a constant threat for opposing teams. She did a tremendous job working to return to the field after facing some adversity in the off season. To put together the season she has thus far has truly been remarkable."
George, a defender from Royal Oak (Marian HS), is making her first appearance on the All-MIAA First Team after being selected as a member of the Second Team in each of the last two seasons. George has been a very versatile part of Kalamazoo's team in each of her four years as shown by her selections as MIAA Offensive and Defensive Player of the Week in the past. As the anchor of the denfense, George has helped the Hornets surrender just 0.97 goals per game this season. George is also the primary payer chosen to set up her teammates by taking free kicks and corner kicks. Her one goal and four assists on the year put her at fifth on the team with six points.
"Sarah has proven herself to be one of the top defenders in the league the previous several years," said Goyings. "It is great to see her earn first team honors this year for her efforts. Not only has she been a constant along the backline but she is a superb free kick specialist that has stepped up to score key goals in big games several times throughout her career."
"Both women are fine representatives of Kalamazoo College and our women's soccer program. I know that they are grateful for the contributions of their teammates that train next to them in practice a stand next to them on match day. They are individual accolades but certainly team awards in a sense. Individually and collectively, we are looking forward to the MIAA tournament and the opportunity to compete against a very strong Calvin team."
The Kalamazoo College women's soccer team finished the regular season 9-6-2 overall and 4-4 in the MIAA. The Hornets travel to Calvin for an MIAA Tournament contest Saturday, Oct. 27.