United Soccer Coaches All-Region Teams
BOCA RATON, Fla. – Florida Atlantic University women's soccer put three student-athletes on the United Soccer Coaches All-South Region team.
Amanda Martin and
Gi Krstec were named Second Team All-South Region, while
Miracle Porter earned the Third Team recognition.
"We are excited to have three of our players be recognized as United Soccer Coaches All-South Region selections," FAU head coach
Patrick Baker said. "Each young lady had a really impactful season, and with these All-Region achievements, they can add a higher level of honor to their resumes. Miracle (Porter) played like a senior throughout the Conference USA season, and its nice to know that Amanda (Martin) and Gi (Krstec) will be back for another season."
Martin, a junior defender, takes home her second straight Second Team All-Region honor after a strong season leading the Owls' back line. Martin started in 17 games for FAU, and logged 1,645 minutes on the pitch, which is 93.6% of the possible 1,757. The Owls' defense, spearheaded by Martin's efforts, allowed only 19 goals in 18 games for a 1.06 goals against average and recorded four shutouts this year.
"I am honored to be recognized as Second Team All-South Region," Martin said. "The team and coaching staff has motivated me to push myself to be the best player I can be on and off the field, but I know there is still a lot of room to grow. I am beyond excited for what next year has to offer. Go Owls!"
"Amanda has stepped into our back line after injury and has been the rock of the defense," Baker said. "She and Jodi (Smith) created a wonderful partnership this fall and had a tremendous season. Her combination of speed and strength allows her to deal with a lot of our opponents' best attackers."
Krstec, a junior midfielder, was a consistent contributor for the Owls. In 17 starts, Krstec ranked third on the team in shots (29) and shots on goal (10). In the team's 1-0 victory over UTEP, Krstec came through in the clutch with a goal in the 88th minute to break the scoreless tie and give FAU the key conference win. This All-Region honor is Krstec's second Second Team nod in a row.
"It's an honor to be recognized alongside such a talented group of players in the South Region," Krstec said. "My team is everything to me, and I want to express my gratitude to them for helping me achieve this accomplishment. I care deeply about the game and my teammates. My athletic and coaching staff assists me tremendously in achieving my goals. Their support and encouragement are simply amazing."
"Gi has been tremendous for us since her arrival to FAU, and this fall was no different," Baker said. "She might not have as much production as others, but her energy, effort, and ability to press opponents defensively is second to none. She sacrifices her body for the cause, makes her teammates better, and she is a tremendous player."
Porter, a senior forward, earned her second consecutive All-Region honor as well. She was a consistent scoring threat who led the FAU offensive attack with seven goals and 14 points. Her seven goals tied for fourth amongst all players in Conference USA. Frequently, Porter delivered in clutch situations, as she scored the game-winners against North Texas and WKU, along with the equalizers against USF, Charlotte, and Marshall. She ended the season, and her career, with four goals in the final five games.
"Miracle had a very good senior season and scored some exciting goals throughout the fall," Baker said. "Her combination of speed, skill, and creativity make her a dangerous attacker. We are glad she came back for her fifth season and helped the team in so many ways. Scoring goals is difficult, but Miracle made it look a lot easier than it can be."
This same trio additionally earned All-Conference USA recognition this past month, with Porter and Krstec taking home First-Team honors and Martin receiving Second-Team honors.
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