UAB Earns Most-Improved Award from Soccer Buzz

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - The UAB women’s soccer team has been named the third-most improved team in Division I soccer, announced by Soccer Buzz today. Finishing with an 11-9 overall record in 2001, the Blazers improved by 133.9 percent over their 2000 record.

Percentages were applied using traditional calculations to show percentage comparisons in a team's record from the previous season.

The 2000 season saw the Blazers post a disappointing 3-14-2 overall record and .158 winning percentage. In 2001, the Blazers improved to a .550 winning percentage. The improvement was mostly due to the experience of the older players and talent of the newer players.

Senior Denise Peters (Jacksonville, Ala.) led the Blazers in goals with nine and points with 22. Last season, Peters led the team with four goals and nine points.

Freshman Briana McCarty (Lawrenceville, Ga.) captured nine assists on the season and proved to be threat on corner kicks.

Junior goalkeeper Lisa Nowoslawski (Melbourne, Fla.) broke many UAB records as she finished the season with a .824 save percentage and 1.13 goals against average. She started in all 20 games for the Blazers and earned six shutouts (four solo, two shared).

With only two seniors leaving, the Blazers will return nine starters for the 2002 season, giving them a wealth of playing experience. Along with experience, the Blazers will rely on some newcomers to make an impact as they look to improve their record to new levels this coming season.