Chambana Sun

Six student-athletes from the University of Illinois soccer team have been recognized by the College Sports Communicators (CSC) with Academic All-District honors. This accolade highlights their dual achievements in academics and athletics.

Senior midfielder Kennedy Berschel, majoring in mechanical engineering, junior defender Ella Karolak, studying psychology, and junior midfielder Sydney Stephens, pursuing early childhood education, each received the award for the second consecutive year. Sophomore forward Lia Howard, a communication major; sophomore defender Ellen Persson, focusing on natural resources and environmental sciences; and senior forward Makala Woods, studying political science, earned this recognition for the first time.

Berschel achieved personal bests with two goals and two assists this season. Karolak played every minute of all matches, contributing to a defense that secured three clean sheets. Stephens was notable for scoring four goals and securing ten points overall. She also scored twice against Pepperdine.

Howard led her team with 14 points from five goals and four assists. She notably scored winning goals against No. 17 Xavier and Louisville. Persson started in 16 out of 17 games and recorded her first career assist at Ohio State while playing over 1,480 minutes during the season. Woods matched her career-best by scoring three goals alongside assisting on another three.

The CSC Academic All-District Women's Soccer Teams acknowledge outstanding student-athletes across the nation for their performance both on the field and academically. Those who are named All-District honorees move forward to be considered for Academic All-America status. The final selections will be announced in December.