Dec. 9, 2008

DAYTON, Ohio -  University of Dayton juniors Mandi Back and Colleen Gibson and freshman Kathleen Beljan were selected by NSCAA/adidas as members of the Women's Soccer All-Great Lakes Region Second Team for their outstanding play during the 2008 season.

"I feel really good about having three players named Second Team," said UD Head Coach Mike Tucker. "They were recognized for what they've done all year long - play great soccer. I am sure happy to have them on our side and not have to play against them."

Back, a three-time First Team All-Atlantic 10 performer, led the Flyers in scoring for the third consecutive season. She put away a team-high eight goals and 19 points. The North Olmsted, Ohio native was named to the A-10 All-Tournament team for the second time in her career. She has scored 29 goals in her career, including nine game-winning goals.

Gibson, of Moreno Valley, Calif., repeated as a First Team All-Atlantic 10 selection this season after tallying a goal and a team-high nine assists. The midfielder finished third in the A-10 for assists per game, notching .50 per contest.

Both Gibson and Back were Third-Team All-Great Lakes Region selection as sophomores in 2007.

Beljan, a defender from Hilliard, Ohio, was one of just two freshmen from the All-Great Lakes Region named to the Second Team. She earned Atlantic 10 All-Rookie Team honors and was also selected to the A-10 All-Tournament Team. She was a part of the Flyer defense that allowed less than a goal per game (.92).

"I know the girls are all excited about achieving this honor," said Tucker. "Next year we hope to be playing at a level where they will be on the First Team."

Dayton finished the 2008 campaign with a 15-6-1 record and advanced to the Atlantic 10 Championship for a league-record 13th consecutive time.