The University of Louisville field hockey team celebrated the success of the 2016 season and announced its team awards at its postseason banquet on February 25 at the University Club and Alumni Center.
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During the banquet, head coach Justine Sowry, associate head coach Lucas Piccioli and assistant coach Olivia Netzler-Gray honored the 2016 senior class: Stephanie Byrne, Lizzie Gittens, LottaKahlert, Erin McCrudden, Hailey Netherton, Elina Pereira, Gianna Perrone and Shannon Sloss.
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As a class, the group of seniors won 55 games while compiling an impressive 31-6 record at Trager Stadium including a perfect 10-0 mark in 2013. They helped the program reach several milestones while leading the transition into the ACC. During their careers, the Cardinals were mainstay in the national top 20 rankings, spending 18 weeks among the top 10 and reaching as high as No. 5 in 2014.
In 2016, Louisville compiled a 15-6 overall record and made its third-consecutive NCAA appearance. The Cardinals were ranked No. 9 in the Penn Monto/National Field Hockey Coaches Poll after spending the entire regular season ranked in the top 10, reaching as high as No. 6.
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In addition to the players in attendance, Louisville field hockey also recognized special alumnae guests  Suzanne Burns, Janine Chancellor. Debbie Condreva, Susan Gardiner and longtime former coach Mrs. SherrillBrakmeier.
 Freshman Essence Award
Freshmen Minout Mink and Carter Ayars were named co-winners of this award given to the first year team member who best aligns with the direction, and the championship culture of excellence of Louisville Field Hockey
 Most Improved Player of the Year
Sophomore Taylor Stone earned the award honoring the player who worked hard every day and showed considerable improvement.Â
 Non-Glam Player of the Year
Senior Erin McCrudden was earned the honor of Non-Glam Player of the year given to the player who hustled, chased, dived, pressured, fought, never gave up and recovered consistently.
 Unsung Hero
Senior Elina Pereira was the 2016 team Unsung Hero who continually and enthusiastically makes a substantive yet unrecognized contribution to the fabric of the team and its culture.
 Players' Player of the Year
Sophomore AyeishaMcFerran was selected as the team's Most valuable player for the 2016 season
 Cardinal Heart & Soul Player of the Year
Junior Abby Grimes earned the award given to a player with a relentless work ethic, an unyielding desire and a huge heart who leads by example and demonstrates the tremendous difference one individual can make.  Â
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Alums Debbie Condreva, Susan Gardiner, Janine Chancellor, Coach Sherrill Brakemeier and Suzanne Burns
