KANSAS CITY, Mo. (Apr. 1, 2021) – United Soccer Coaches, committed to extending opportunities for awards and recognition for its college members, announced a new College Player Award of Distinction on Tuesday. Open to all senior and junior college programs that are College Services members, the award is an opportunity for coaches to recognize their significant players for contributions to their teams.
Endorsed by both the Men’s and Women’s Senior College All-America National Chairs and their committees, head coaches of teams that are members of College Services may submit up to three of their deserving players, in good academic and athletic standing at their institution, based on one or more of the following criteria:
- The player has achieved quality performance on the field;
- Represented the highest ideals of team leadership;
- Exhibited quality character attributes including sportsmanship and respect for teammates, opponents, officials and the game in general;
- Made significant contributions to the benefit of the program and the community
“The nationwide Covid-19 pandemic caused cancellation of some college championships and many programs have experienced changes to the traditional college season including reduced games, a switch to spring competition and even total suspension of play,” said Steve Veal, United Soccer Coaches Awards Manager. “Our committees believe this new award will be an opportunity for coaches to recognize some of their players of significance.”
Nominations opened today, April 1st, and submissions will be accepted through the end of the month. Once a member logs in, they will be able to nominate players by submitting a nomination form. The players receiving the recognition will be announced in May by divisions and will receive a special certificate sent to their institution. The new award will continue to be a part of the college recognition program this fall and going forward.
For further information, contact awards@unitedsoccercoaches.org.