The Big South Women's Soccer conference has once again turned the spotlight on the league's most impactful performances, unveiling its weekly award recipients for the period spanning August 17 through August 23. The announcements come as teams jockey for positioning in a season marked by high‑scoring affairs and tightening defenses, with each honoree embodying the competitive spirit that defines the conference.
A Hat Trick That Defined the Week
Sabba Haghgoo of High Point stole the spotlight after a three‑goal outburst that powered her squad to a 4‑0 victory over Marshall. The hat trick, sealed in the 56th minute, was supported by four shots on target and a total of eight attempts, underscoring her relentless attacking presence.
Berni Wayland of Longwood was equally pivotal on the back line, logging the full 90 minutes in a 3‑0 win against American. Her defensive work helped restrict the opposition to just two shots on goal, a key factor in securing the team's first victory of the campaign and cementing her status as a cornerstone of the Lancers' rearguard.
Freshman sensation Nina Meyer from Charleston Southern also earned recognition after a breakout performance that featured two goals and an assist in a 9‑1 triumph over Columbia. Her scores in the 28th and 59th minutes, coupled with a helper on the fourth tally, marked her third career game and hint at a promising future for the Buccaneers.
A Broader Field of Nominees
The conference's weekly honors extended beyond the award winners, with additional nods to offensive standouts Julia McBride, McKenna Vogel and Maddie Smith of Gardner‑Webb, defensive contributors Abril Montiel, Mirshafiei Nylah, Lyla Chadd and Mia Ruffalo, and freshman candidates Brynn Clagett, Chloe Edwards, Kinsie Kulig and Alexa Garcia. Each nomination reflects the depth of talent spread across the league's programs.
As the season progresses, these early accolades serve as both a celebration of individual excellence and a predictor of team momentum. With several award‑winning performances already shaping conference standings, fans can expect the upcoming fixtures to carry added intensity, especially as squads look to build on the momentum generated by their star players.