3/15/2008

WILLIAMSPORT, Pa.– The Lycoming College women’s soccer program recognized several players during its annual banquet Saturday, March 15. The 2008 captains were also announced.

Head coach Joe Balduino honored a trio of graduating seniors in Jessica Bennett (Crofton, Md./ South River), Gabrielle Toy (Whitehall, Pa./Whitehall) and Rachel Skinner (Salladasburg, Pa./Jersey Shore).

Toy earned the Lady Warriors’ Woman of the Year Award after seeing action in
14 games this season. For her career, she totaled two goals while playing in 35 games.

Sophomore Samantha Jo Bell (Maple Shade, N.J./Maple Shade) took home the 2007 Most Valuable Player Award. Bell started in 16 games this year, scoring two goals. Her presence on the field kept pressure on opposing defenses throughout the season.

Freshman Kaitlin Horn (Ringtown, Pa./North Schuylkill) earned the Rookie of the Year award. During her first season as a Lady Warrior, Horn led the team with seven assists and finished second with seven goals. Her 21 total points were second best on the team.

The Lady Warriors Most Improved Player award went to Skinner. She finished the 2007 season with eight goals, including a hat trick against Lancaster Bible on Oct. 3. Rachel tallied nine goals, two assists and 20 points during her 54-game career.

Bell, Rebekah Shipe (Northumberland, Pa.) and Dana Steinbruch (Wyckoff, N.J.) were named captains for the 2008 season.

Following the 2007 season, Bennett and Shipe both earned second team All-Conference honors. Bennett, a goalie, finished her Lycoming career with a school-record 1.59 goals against average. Shipe’s 11 goals were tops for the Lady Warriors and fourth in the conference, while her five assists tied for second on the team. Shipe was also named to the MAC All-Sportsmanship Team.

Following the 2007 season 13 Lady Warriors were named to the MAC Academic Honor Roll.

“Our players made a tireless effort throughout the season,” said Balduino. “I’d like to thank the parents and faculty members for their support and my assistant coach Jennifer Allen for her dedication to the program. Also, my wife Sarah Balduino, for her constant support and for allowing me to share so much time with the players throughout the year.”