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Walnut Creek, Calif. • Sophomore midfielder Avery Ford has been named an Honorable Mention All-Pac-12 Conference selection and redshirt freshman goalkeeper Lindsey Luke has earned Pac-12 All-Freshman Team honors, the league office announced Wednesday.
Ford, a native of Ogden, Utah, started all 19 games this year as she anchored the Utes' midfield once again. From her holding mid spot she scored two goals, including one game winner, and provided two assists, both on game-winning goals. Ford provided a terrific defensive presence and was a crucial conduit in transition from offense to defense. She was also a Pac-12 All-Freshman team selection in 2011.
"Avery had an excellent season," said Utah head coach Rich Manning. "As a midfielder, her passing and vision helped us to keep the ball and started our attacks. She also made terrific strides in her defensive game and had a strong impact in stopping our opponents. Avery's well-rounded game represents the kind of soccer we play here at Utah."
Ford has routinely stepped up in big moments in her young Utah career. She has scored three career goals, two of which have been game winners, and posted five assists, including three on game-winning goals. This season, she tallied the game winner against Southern Utah and assisted on back-to-back game winners against Washington State (2-1 in overtime) and Washington (2-0).
Luke, who hails from Corona del Mar, Calif., finished the season with 85 saves and an .810 save percentage, both of which ranked fourth in the Pac-12. She also posted a 1.12 goals-against-average with four shutouts.
"Lindsey had a fantastic freshman season," said Manning. "Her shot-stopping and distribution skills were key in helping us improve our team defense in our second year in the Pac-12. Goalkeeper is a position that requires skill and poise. Lindsey played beyond her years and is well-deserving of this honor."