Madeline Anderson anchored a stingy Hofstra backline this season. (Photo courtesy of Hofstra Sports Communications)
HEMPSTEAD, N.Y. – Hofstra University junior Madeline Anderson and senior Kristin Desmond were named to the United Soccer Coaches All-East Region first team, while senior Kelly Gerdes earned a spot on the third team, the association announced Wednesday.
Anderson, the Colonial Athletic Association defensive player of the year, anchored the Pride backline to 11 shutouts on the year. Hofstra allowed only three goals through conference play as the Pride went 9-0 to capture the regular-season title.
The Westbury, N.Y., native rarely left the pitch, making her presence known as one of the region’s best defenders. Anderson also contributed offensively, posting two goals and two assists, with both tallies as game-winners.
Desmond also was CAA player of the year. She led the Pride with nine goals and 21 points, with four game-winning goals. The East Northport, N.Y., native posted a four-game point streak early in conference play, registering 11 points over that span. She also assisted on the game-winner in the final minute at the College of Charleston, securing Hofstra’s unbeaten conference run.
Hailing from Wantagh, N.Y., Gerdes had another impressive season as a center back. Like Anderson, Gerdes hardly left the field this season, finishing second on the team with 1,872 minutes played. With her speed and fearlessness, she cemented her place as a shutdown defender, beating opponents to the ball and preventing them from getting into scoring position.
Anderson and Desmond are eligible to be selected as United Soccer Coaches All-Americans. Those teams are expected to be be announced later this week.
