Smisdom, Skinner named NFHCA Division I National Players of the Week

Sep 18, 2024 | 2024-2025, Division I, News

MANAHAWKIN, NJ  — Alison Smisdom, a senior midfielder from No. 17 University at Albany, and Michaela Skinner, a sophomore goalkeeper from No. 11 Liberty University, have been named this week’s NFHCA Division I Offensive and Defensive Players of the Week, respectively. Kate McLaughlin, a graduate-student forward from No. 9 University of Michigan, also received an honorable mention nod for Offensive Player of the Week. The NFHCA Player of the Week is sponsored by Victory Sports Tours.

NFHCA Division I Defensive Player of the Week

Michaela Skinner, No. 11 Liberty University, So., Goalkeeper (Chesapeake, VA)

  • Big East Defensive Player of the Week.
  • Posted two shutouts, including a 1-0 win over then No. 4 Duke University – the first-ever blanking of the Blue Devils in 10 meetings between the two squads.
  • Recorded first career shutout in 5-0 victory over William & Mary.

NFHCA Division I Offensive Player of the Week

 

Alison Smisdom, No. 17 University at Albany, Sr., Midfielder (Antwerp, Belgium)

  • America East Offensive Player of the Week.
  • Netted five of six goals for Albany in a pair of victories.
  • Recorded a hat-trick, including the game-winner, in an overtime victory over then No. 7 Harvard University.

NFHCA Division I Offensive Player of the Week Honorable Mention

 

Kate McLaughlin, No. 9 Michigan, Gr., Forward (Winnetka, IL)

  • Amassed a B1G-best 11 points with four goals and three assists in Michigan’s sweep of Ohio and Central Michigan.
  • Extended goal-scoring streak to five games and leads the Wolverines with nine goals.
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The National Field Hockey Coaches Association (NFHCA) is a nonprofit organization serving field hockey coaches and supporters of the game from across the United States. The mission of the organization is to champion, strengthen, and celebrate field hockey coaches and the game. The NFHCA strives to cultivate and recognize the professional contributions of its membership and to foster and promote the growth of the sport. The NFHCA is responsible for providing a recognizable presence and voice in regard to legislation affecting the sport as well as interscholastic and intercollegiate programs.