ERIE, Pa. - Coming off a trip to the NCAA Tournament, the Penn State Behrend men's soccer team announced their 2011 team awards.
The team's Most Valuable Player award went to Aaron Meehl (North East, PA/North East). The senior midfielder tallied six goals to go along with four assists while starting in every game. Meehl was also honored for the second straight year by earning First-Team All-AMCC accolades.
Eric Hackworth (Pittsburgh, PA/Shaler) was named the team's Most Improved Player. Hackworth appeared in every contest, scoring three goals. Hackworth was instrumental in the mid-field during the Lions post-season run.
Jimmy Belack (Upper St. Clair, PA/Upper St. Clair) was tabbed as the program's Rookie of the Year. Belack started in every game this season, tallying 17 points on five goals and seven assists. Belack netted the game winner in the Lions first round upset of No. 13 Hobart in the NCAA Tournament.
The Tommy Sieg Inspirational Award went to Kyle McKinney (Chesterland, OH/West Geauga). The senior defender anchored the back line for the Lions. McKinney also earned First-Team All-Conference honors for the second consecutive season. McKinney is leaving Behrend having played in 87 career games, tying the all-time record.
The Lions ended their season with three straight games against ranked opponents. Behrend defeated No. 25 Medaille in the Allegheny Mountain Collegiate Conference Championship game and then knocked off No. 13 Hobart in the NCAA Tournament.
