STANFORD, Calif. – Stanford field hockey gathered this weekend for a team banquet to celebrate a record-breaking season and recognize members for team awards.
The Cardinal (19-3) produced the best season in program history, including winning its first NCAA Tournament game and setting program records in victories (19), winning-streak (12 games) and national ranking (No. 3). Stanford went 4-1 against the top 10 and 6-2 against the top 20.
The Cardinal’s defense was terrific all year and ranked first in goals-against average and save percentage for nearly every week during the season. Stanford limited opponents to one goal or less in 20 of 22 games.
Stanford’s senior class leaves the team as the most accomplished group in program history, accumulating a 68-19 record during their four years.
Alex McCawley was named the Cardinal of the Year, given to the best-performing player on the team. The recipient of the award demonstrates outstanding skill, character, competitive drive, leadership and devotion to team goals.
McCawley (international relations) led Stanford in points (34), goals (15) and game-winning goals (5). She scored crucial goals throughout the season, including the game-winning overtime goal against No. 10 Louisville in the first round of the NCAA Tournament to give the Cardinal its first tournament victory in program history.
Kelsey Harbin earned the Players’ Player Award, given to the teammate who best represents the program and exemplifies leadership, teamwork, dedication, commitment and intensity, and embodies what it means to wear the Stanford “S”.
Harbin (human biology) anchored the nation’s best defense and captained the Cardinal to multiple defensive program records. Harbin earned All-America honors for the third consecutive year and was named the NorPac Player of the Year for the second straight season. She was named one of four finalists for the Honda Sports Award.
Sarah Helgeson took home the Promising Young Player Award, given to the freshman or sophomore who made a significant impact on the team’s overall performance. The recipient of this award demonstrates skillfulness, outstanding work ethic and a mature understanding of the game.
Helgeson made quick strides, literally and figuratively, during her freshman campaign. A speedy midfielder, Helgeson was a force down the sideline for the Cardinal, utilizing her speed to get by defenders and generate offensive opportunities. She was a workhorse through the midfield, often chasing down the opposition to disrupt counter-attacks.
While Stanford loses its most accomplished senior class in program history, the future remains bright with a talented junior class and strong core of underclassmen.
