St. Edward’s women soccer has an overall record of 10-4, with a 6-0 mark in conference play. In the last four games the Hilltoppers have only conceded one goal, an impressive defensive performance that has been keyed by sophomore Lorrie Santoy.

The 5’9 goalkeeper from Georgetown was named Heartland Conference Defensive player of the week earlier this month for the second time this season. Santoy has recorded five shutouts thus far, with three coming in the last four conference matches.

“I think we managed five shutouts on the season by putting in a collective defensive effort and playing physically and mentally strong for 90 minutes,” Santoy said. “Getting this award means that the hard work I have put in is paying off.”

Santoy has tallied 25 saves and a save percentage of .806 this season, with an in-goal record of 8-4, but she has bigger goals.

“My personal goals for the team this season is to win the conference tournament and make a long run into the national tournament,” Santoy said.

After winning the conference title and advancing to the Elite Eight last season, the Hilltoppers are poised to make another run at the NCAA Tournament.

“Playing for St. Edward’s is a fun experience,” Santoy said. “I am surrounded by a group of friends and have the opportunity to compete at the highest level in Division II.”

In just her sophomore year, Head Coach Nick Cowell not only views Santoy as a promising player, but also as a leader.

“As a goalkeeper, you are expected to be a leader back there vocally because you can see the plays develop,” Cowell said. “She has really taken on that responsibility and become one of the leaders on our team.

Santoy also has worked very hard on her fitness, which has been a huge part of her success this season.

“She came into season in fantastic shape,” Cowell said. “That was leading by example (physically) and now she is leading vocally as well.”

Despite some of the heartbreaking losses this season, even some of the older and more experienced players on the team are leaning on her leadership.

“Lorrie definitely helps through the toughest times,” senior teammate Mikayla Engel said. “A lot of players feel confident with her back there and we all love her to death, she is great.”