The Hermann Trophy stands as the most coveted individual honor in women’s college soccer, recognizing the nation’s top player each season.
Preseason Watch List Highlights
Duke’s women’s soccer program saw four of its standout athletes named to the 2026 preseason watch list, a testament to the team’s depth and early‑season momentum.
Katie Shea Collins, a Gallatin, Tennessee native, opened the season with three goals and an assist in her first four appearances, earning her a spot on the watch list as a 2025 All‑America selection.
Sam Courtwright, hailing from Dallas, Texas, contributed two goals and three assists during her rookie year at Duke, building on a decorated high‑school career that included All‑America honors at Texas Tech.
Mia Minestrella, a Redondo Beach, California product, ranks among the nation’s most prolific scorers over the past three seasons, having netted six goals in her first four games and sitting second nationally with 36 career goals.
Cameron Roller, a Sherman, Texas defender, anchors a back line that has recorded 31 shutouts in the last four years, establishing herself as one of the country’s premier center backs.
About the Hermann Trophy
The award, presented by the Missouri Athletic Club, honors the National Player of the Year and is determined by a vote of Division I head coaches. From the initial watch list, 15 semifinalists will be announced on December 4, after which three finalists will be selected.
The champion will be revealed on January 8, 2027, at the Club’s St. Louis ceremony, capping a season that begins with a showdown against Old Dominion on August 27, 2026, at 6 p.m. in Norfolk, Virginia, streamed live on ESPN+.