By Robert McKinney, Assistant Athletics Director, Communications

SALEM, Ore. -- The Willamette University women's soccer team has earned the Team Academic Award for the 2019-20 academic year as announced by the United Soccer Coaches late last week. It is the third year in a row and the sixth time in the past 10 years that the Bearcats have qualified for the award. Willamette also achieved the honor in 2010-11, 2012-13, 2014-15, 2017-18, and 2018-19.

A total of 556 women's soccer teams earned the award at all levels of collegiate play. The Team Academic Award requires a combined team grade point average of 3.0 (4.0 scale) for all players who were on the team during the fall season. Willamette qualified for the award with a 3.39 team GPA.

"Performing well in the classroom is a priority for our program," Head Coach Hillary Arthur said. "Our student-athletes are committed to success in the classroom and on the field. Academics are the reason our players are here and we take that very seriously. Soccer is an important and enriching aspect to the college experience, with academics being number one. The commitment to pursuing excellence in the classroom and on the field translates well into life after college and future endeavors."

During the 2019 season, the Bearcats attained an 11-7-2 overall record and went 10-4-2 (3rd place) in the Northwest Conference. The Bearcats outscored their opponents 27-19 and recorded eight shutouts. Willamette was 7-1-1 in games played at Sparks Field. Coach Arthur earned her 100th win at Willamette during the season and now has 107 victories with the Bearcats.