The St. Edward’s women’s fall sports teams were very successful this year. Both the soccer and volleyball team finished ranked among the top 64 teams in the nation. The women’s soccer team made it to the NCAA tournament, losing out in the first round of regionals. The women’s volleyball team won The Heartland Conference for the 4th consecutive year and advanced to the NCAA tournament where they also lost in the first round of Regionals. The success of each of these teams is derived from a team effort.

Each of these teams have a lot of depth, so they are able to play a variety of team members and still be successful. There are a few members of Hilltopper these teams who have really stood out among their teammates and competitors. Several members earned post-season honors within the conference, region and even at the national level.

Junior, Michelle Hundt, of the women’s volleyball team was a key player and vital part of the volleyball team’s success. Hundt led the Hilltopper’s defense throughout the entire year as their libero. She earned several conference honors. She was named The Heartland Conference libero of the year. She earned several honors throughout the season as defensive player of the week. She now sits at 3rd on St. Edward’s all time dig records. She also earned Regional and National awards. She was named to the AVCA All-Region team and also named an AVCA honorable mention All-American. Hundt had an outstanding year, averaging 7 digs a set and tallying 41 digs in her final match of the season at the NCAA tournament. Hundt will return next year as a senior and is sure to contribute to the future success of the St. Edward’s Volleyball team.

Sophomore Rachael Murray of the St. Edward’s women’s soccer team had an outstanding year, yet again. Murray was named the Heartland Conference Freshman of the Year last year and has continued to perform and earn honors this year. This year, she was named Heartland Conference Offensive Player of the year multiple times. Murray led the conference in goals scored, assists, points and game winning goals. She performed well all season but really kicked it into a higher gear down the home-stretch of the season scoring 5 goals in the last two regular season matches. Murray was named first team all region on the 2011 Daktronics South Central Regional team.

The men’s teams didn’t experience the same successes this fall. The men’s soccer team had a difficult season, finishing with a 3-12-3 record. They fought hard and constantly competed with other teams but unfortunately, fell short of post-season competition. Although they did not advance to the conference tournament, 2 players earned post-season awards.

J.R. Ellis, junior center forward, was named to the 2011 Daktronics South Central All-Region team. He contributed 5 goals and 2 assists, while appearing in only 12 of the 18 matches due to a severe knee injury. Ellis was also named Heartland Conference offensive player of the week from his contributions in the team’s win against ATM International.

 

 

St. Edward’s University is a leader within Division II athletics. The Hilltoppers are competitive members of the Heartland Conference. The athletes at St. Edward’s are taught to excel on the field and in the world that they live in. Hilltopper athletes are students first and have historically achieved high marks in their academics. Compared to other NCAA Division II schools, St. Edward’s athletes perform higher academically, receive more special honors and win more games and titles.

The Hilltoppers have a history of success among their competitors in each and every sport. Last year, the women’s soccer team won the South Central Regional championship and advanced to the Elite Eight where they finished sixth in the nation. The women’s volleyball team has won the Heartland Conference title for 3 years straight. In 2010 the women’s golf team finished 5^th in the nation with the men’s team finishing as a regional finalist for the seventh year straight. The men’s tennis team advanced to the national tournament for the third year straight and fifth time in the past six years last year. They finished in the Elite Eight for the second consecutive season.

Read the 2010-2011 annual report here! 

Academically, St. Edward’s athletes are of the highest caliber. Over 30% of the student athletes on the Hilltop earn over a 3.5 GPA and 60% earn at least a 3.0 GPA. The athletic program at St. Edwards has produced four Academic All-Americans and has one of the highest graduation rates among all NCAA Division II schools. The athletes understand that they are not only representing the University in athletic competition, but also in the classroom. They work hard to balance their hectic schedules. In season, a student-athlete will be required to dedicate close to 30 hours a week to their sport. The athletes at St. Edward’s match and exceed that time commitment in relation to their studies.

Not only do St. Edward’s student athletes work hard to pursue academic and athletic excellence, but they also work hard to give back to their community in any and every way possible. The student athletes are involved in over 80 campus and community organizations where they devote their time, energy and hearts to serve their community. Overall, the Toppers have dedicated over 3,000 hours to their community in the past year alone.  A few examples of Toppers serving the community include the Copperfield Elementary math night where student-athletes mentor elementary students and engage them in fun, educational games. Another excellent example is their involvement with the Make a Wish Foundation. Last year the Hilltoppers raised over $1,000 for Make a Wish.

The St. Edward’s Hilltoppers are passionate athletes.  They carry themselves in a unique and honorable way both in competition and in life. They compete each and every time they step out on to the field or court. The success of the St. Edward’s student-athletes is derived from their attitude and spirit that is present among all levels of involvement including the fans, coaches, players and administration at St. Edwards. Come to a game or match and experience the thrill of supporting teams that play with audacity and heart!

Through this blog I will give you all a deeper look into the lives of these student athletes, their success, their battles, and their involvement in the community. As a member of the St. Edward’s Volleyball team, I have an inside look into the life of a student athlete. You will see how the Hilltopper athletes are a step above the rest and are champions on and off the court.