McLaughlin Recognized With United Soccer Coaches College Player Award of Distinction
Junior Roma McLaughlin of the Central Connecticut women's soccer team was recognized with the United Soccer Coaches 2020-21 College Player Award of Distinction it was announced on Wednesday. The award honors recipients from NCAA Divisions I, II, and III, in addition to NAIA, NCCAA, and Junior College.
In total, the award recognized 184 men and 325 women's players designated as 2020-21 recipients of the award. The new College Player Award of Distinction was established this spring for its member head coaches to submit deserving player based on one or more of the following criteria:
- Player has achieved quality performance on the field;
- Represented the highest ideals of team leadership;
- Exhibited quality character attributes including sportsmanship and respect for teammates, opponents, officials and the game in general;
- Made other significant contributions to the benefit of the program and the community.
McLaughlin, who recently earned a selection to the Ireland women's soccer national team, tallied 10 points and scored four goals in the shortened 2021 spring season. In the team's first game, the Greencastle County Donegal, Ireland native set the tone scoring a goal and adding an assist in a 4-0 victory. The junior then scored a goal in back to back games at Wagner and versus Bryant, leading the Blue Devils to an undefeated regular season at 6-0. A three-time All-NEC choice, she is a two-time NEC Midfielder of the Year and the 2018 NEC Rookie of the Year.