July 10, 2009

Memphis, Tenn. - The women's soccer selection committee for the Lowe's Senior CLASS Award has identified University of Memphis midfielder Laura Laufenberg as one of this season's top senior student-athletes.

"It's a great honor for Laura Laufenberg and the University of Memphis to be nominated for such a prestigious award," said women's soccer head coach Brooks Monaghan. "I think the nomination is well deserved, and Laura has a great opportunity to win this award given her past performance on and off the field."

The Senior CLASS Award was created in 2001 as an acronym for Celebrating Loyalty and Achievement for Staying in School. This unique award honors the seniors who remain committed to their university and elect to pursue the many rewards that a senior season can bring. The Senior CLASS Award recognizes these student-athletes for great achievement during competition and in their community while staying in school. Award winners are determined by a selection process that includes NCAA Division I college coaches in each respective sport, national media and fans. The voting process determines the winner in addition to a Senior CLASS All-America Team.

As a junior midfielder, Laufenberg led the Lady Tigers with seven assists in the 2008 season while also netting four goals. The Littleton, Colo., native Laufenberg was named C-USA All-Academic Second Team. Laufenberg was named Offensive MVP of the C-USA Tournament which gave the Lady Tigers their second consecutive trip to the NCAA Tournament. Laufenberg scored game-winning goals in C-USA competition at UTEP and versus UAB.

Memphis will open its 2009 season Aug. 15th with an exhibition match against Samford at 1 p.m. at Mike Rose Stadium.