ORLANDO – Two consecutive shutouts propelled the UCF women’s soccer team to No. 19 in the United Soccer Coaches week six poll, following a perfect 3-0 start to its inaugural Big 12 conference campaign. Both Caroline DeLisle and Jessica McCullen, two marquee forces in the Knights defensive stability, have now been honored by the conference office as Big 12 Goalkeeper and Freshman of the Week, respectively.
After climbing to a share of second place in career shutouts, DeLisle has garnered her first Big 12 Goalkeeper of the Week honor following yet another affirmative week between the posts. Her fourth career appearance against the Houston Cougars marked her third clean sheet, having allowed just one goal in 360 minutes, and notching the Knights first road victory in the Big 12. With four saves to start the week, DeLisle and UCF returned to Orlando for another nailbiter. Kansas was consistently testing the Knights’ defenders, as the eight-time AAC Goalkeeper of the Week secured what would become her first in the Big 12, notching five saves which proved to be vital as Katie Bradley’s 84th minute secured three more points and the squad’s fifth consecutive win.
Following her first career start against Florida Atlantic on Sept. 3, 2023, McCullen has instantly slotted in alongside Kyleigh Thelen at center back for the Knights. The Longwood, Florida, native has shown her versatility, both with her passing ability and a strong, physical markup that has been crucial through the early stages of Big 12 conference play. While on the pitch, the Black and Gold have conceded just three goals while keeping three clean sheets in the five-match span.
With a goalkeeper and freshman of the week recognition, women’s soccer became the first Olympic sport to garner Big 12 weekly awards. With nine points and three wins atop the conference standings, UCF re-entered the United Coaches Soccer top 25 at No. 19, its highest since 2021.
The Knights now embark on a four-day road trip, visiting fellow conference leaders, Oklahoma State, in Stillwater on Thursday night, before making the 80-mile excursion to Norman to face the Sooners at 2 p.m. on Sunday.
Offensive Player of the Week
Ashleigh Williams, TTU, F, Jr.
Defensive Player of the Week
Hannah Anderson, TTU, D, Gr.
Goalkeeper of the Week
Caroline DeLisle, UCF, Gr.
Freshman of the Week
Jessica McCullen, UCF, D