Edwards Named MVP; Dahlkemper Earns Two Honors
Soccer News: The Western New York Flash announced its 2015 Team Award winners, as voted on by Flash players, coaches and administration.
Most Valuable Player, presented by Sahlen’s: Becky Edwards
Edwards, 27, has been tabbed as the Flash’s Most Valuable Player for the 2015 season. After returning to the Flash via trade this year, the midfielder was one of two players to see the field for all 1800 minutes this season. A co-captain, Edwards also scored two goals and provided three assists.
Edwards scored her first NWSL goal in the Flash’s home opener against Boston, netting what would be the game-winner in the 62nd minute.
Offensive Player of the Year, presented by Sahlen Sports Park: Lynn Williams
Williams, a rookie out of Pepperdine University, was named Offensive Player of the Year after posting a team-high 12 points on four goals and four assists. With her speed, Williams consistently kept opposing defenses on their toes and scored her first professional goal on May 23rd, capitalizing on a breakaway opportunity. However, Williams’ contributions didn’t just come from goals. Her four assists were also tied for a club high.
Williams missed the Flash’s final two matches of the season after undergoing surgery in her right knee.
Defensive Player of the Year, presented by Excelsior Orthopaedics, and Rookie of the Year, presented by the WNY Flash Academy: Abby Dahlkemper
Dahlkemper was selected with the Flash first pick in the 2015 NWSL College Draft, taken third overall out of UCLA. The defender was versatile throughout the year, moving between center back, outside back and midfield when needed. The 22-year-old started all 20 matches and was on the field for all but 16 minutes this season.
Community Service Award, presented by Roswell Park Cancer Institute: Jasmyne Spencer and Kristen Edmonds
Both Spencer and Edmonds were named co-winners for the 2015 Community Service Award after spending much of their time off the field in the Western New York community. The pair was active in appearances for the Flash and they also were season-long volunteers at the Erie County SPCA, working in the wildlife department to rehabilitate and release sick, injured, or orphaned wildlife.
Captain’s Award, Unsung Hero: Kristen Hamilton
After being drafted by the Flash in the 2014 NWSL College Draft, Hamilton suffered a setback when she tore her ACL during preseason last year. However, the forward came back strong in 2015, and was selected as the club’s Unsung Hero by captains Brittany Taylor and Becky Edwards.
“Day in and day out, she came in, worked hard and made sure, no matter what was going on, everything was positive and was a really good teammate,” Taylor said of Hamilton. “She’s always there to support everyone and we’re so happy she was able to get back on the field this year.”
Season tickets for the 2016 WNY Flash season are now available by calling the Flash at (716) 655-PLAY or by contacting the Sahlen’s Stadium Box Office at (585) 454-KICK.
