Junior defender Sophia Garofalo and sophomore midfielder Anna Buckwalter have earned spots on the ECAC Women’s Soccer Second Team, as announced on Friday. This is a notable achievement, especially since Binghamton is the only team from the America East conference to have multiple players selected. It’s also a first for the Binghamton women’s soccer program to have players honored in this manner.
Their recognition comes on the heels of an impressive season for the Bearcats. Under coach Neel Bhattacharjee, the team posted a record of 10 wins, 2 draws, and 5 losses. They clinched the regular-season title for the third time in four years. The season also saw the Bearcats set a school record with a 13-game unbeaten streak, including 8 wins and 5 draws, and only one loss in regular-season play. At home, they remained undefeated with a record of 6 wins, 0 draws, and 1 loss. In the past four seasons, they have lost only three conference games, boasting a remarkable 77% win rate—highest in the America East.
Earlier this month, Garofalo was also named to the United Soccer Coaches All-Atlantic Third Team. She was the America East Defender of the Year, making her the first player from Binghamton to receive this honor in the program’s history. She has also been selected for the first team all-conference twice.
Buckwalter achieved the title of America East Co-Midfielder of the Year, contributing three goals and three assists while averaging an impressive 82 minutes per game on the field. This marks her second all-conference selection, and she was named the 2024 America East Rookie of the Year.
Recent stats show that Binghamton’s performance aligns with trends in collegiate soccer, where defensive strength and teamwork are pivotal for success. The Bearcats’ achievements demonstrate that strategic training and focus can lead to remarkable results in sports.
For more detailed information about collegiate soccer and player achievements, you can visit the NCAA website here.
