Chippewa Valley Times

The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire women's soccer team has announced its team award winners during a year-end banquet held over the weekend. The event recognized several players for their contributions throughout the season.

Molly Henderson, a senior from Duluth, Minnesota, was named Team MVP. Henderson led the team by scoring six goals and providing four assists, achieving a team-high of 16 points this season.

Junior Paige Crawford from Elk River, Minnesota, received the Defensive Player of the Year award. Crawford played in all 21 games and contributed to eight shutouts for the Blugolds.

Elise Pinewski, a senior from Anoka, Minnesota, was awarded Offensive Player of the Year with her performance of four goals and three assists, totaling 11 points.

Sophomore Taylor Bembnister from Holmen, Wisconsin, was recognized as Practice Player of the Year. Grace Prairie, a junior from Blaine, Minnesota/Centennial, earned Most Improved Player honors. Rookie of the Year accolades were shared by Johanna Thompson from Green Bay, Wisconsin/Preble and Emma Donovan from Hazel Green, Wisconsin/Wahlert Catholic.

Haley Von Rentzell, a junior from Chanhassen, Minnesota, was named Playmaker of the Year. Vanessa Grunwald from Suamico, Wisconsin/Pulaski received the Golden Shoe award as an unsung hero.

Senior Kennedy Boll from Franklin, Wisconsin won the Glory for Lori Excellence Award while Sophie Hubbard from De Pere, Wisconsin was this year's Competitive Cauldron champion.