Clemson’s Nathan Sturgis named ACC Defensive Player of the Year

Nov. 7, 2005

GREENSBORO, N.C. – Nathan Sturgis was named the ACC Defensive Player of the Year and first-team All-ACC, while two other Clemson players were named to the All-ACC Soccer Team as announced by the league’s office Monday afternoon.

Clemson goalkeeper Phil Marfuggi and defender Sturgis were both named to the first team. Bryson Moore was named to the All-ACC Freshman team.

Sturgis leads a defense that ranks fourth in the conference in goals allowed (16) and goals against average at 0.88 through 17 games this season. The sophomore defender played a key role for Clemson down the stretch as the Tigers finished the regular season winning four straight and unbeaten in their last seven, limiting their opponents to just three goals during that span. The streak also included a 2-0-2 mark in Clemson’s final four conference games.

Marfuggi has a 0.89 GAA and has 72 saves this season in goal. He has also recorded four solo shutouts.

Moore started 16 contests for the Tigers this season. He scored three goals and had three assists for nine points.

Sturgis becomes the second ACC Player of the Year under Head Coach Trevor Adair. Former Tiger, Wojtek Krakowiak was named the ACC Player of the Year in 1998. Adair has also coached 40 All-ACC selections during his career at Clemson.