December 17, 2009

ADAMS NAMED CAA WOMEN’S SOCCER SCHOLAR-ATHLETE OF THE YEAR

RICHMOND, Va. – Many college students have to work day and night in order to have a chance at a perfect 4.0 GPA.

Add to that a full schedule of women’s soccer practice, games, community service, team meetings, etc. and it would be nearly impossible.

Not so for senior Amanda Adams (Salem, Va.), who will finish up in May with both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Early and Elementary Education.

The four-year women’s soccer standout at Virginia Commonwealth University was honored for her hard work both on and off the field as she was named the Colonial Athletic Association Scholar-Athlete of the Year in women’s soccer.

“We’re so happy to see Amanda’s hard work recognized and can’t think of a more deserving person for this award,” Co-Head Coach Tim Sahaydak said. “She’s an absolute pleasure to coach and a wonderful asset to our program and university.”

Adams was a three-year starter and co-captain of this year’s Ram squad. Her two clutch penalty kicks against George Mason gave VCU a thrilling 2-1 overtime home win over the Patriots.

She finished her career with 72 games played, three goals and three assists.

“Amanda is the perfect example of what each and every player in our program should be striving for and her success is truly an inspiration. Our only regret is that she can’t stay around for a few more years,” Sahaydak added.  

Adams was named NSCAA/Adidas Scholar All-Region on two occasions and earned the CAA Commissioner’s Award in every season.

She is the first Ram in the history of the women’s soccer program to receive the honor. She is also the first Black & Gold athlete since 2006 to earn a Scholar-Athlete Award when Ludmilla Francescatto was honored in volleyball.