RUSSELLVILLE, Ark. – The Great American Conference announced its All-Decade Team for women's soccer on Wednesday afternoon. Four OBU players in
Ruth King,
Jennifer Goethe,
Lara Haring-Lovett, and
Jennifer Goethe were bestowed with this honor.
"I am pleased to have four great players chosen for the Great American Conference All-Decade Team, especially considering that we've only been in the GAC four years," said Head Coach
Mike White. "Our players join an elite group of talented players who deserve to be honored for their achievements. All except
Emily Griffith have graduated or will graduate this spring and will be difficult to replace."
King played for the Bison from 2016-19. While at OBU, she was a four-time First Team All-GAC selection, three-time All-Central Region Second Team, USC Second Team All-Central, and 2018 GAC Offensive Player of the Year.
"Ruth is OBU's all-time leading goal scorer," said White. "Most teams we played against had to adjust their style of play to contain her. Not only did she score goals, she also set up several, showing her versatility as a player. She has received National Recognition (All-American) as well."
At OBU, Goethe was selected to the All-GAC Team three of her four years on campus with two of the selections being first team.
"Goethe graduated in 2019 but left a huge hole to fill," said White. "She was a four-year starter and two-year captain. Jen is likely the most nationally acknowledged player (All-American, All-Region, etc) on both the athletic and academic sides, that has come through this program. I'm thankful to have her back with us on the sidelines as an assistant coach."
Defender Haring-Lovett played for the Bison from 2016-19. While a Bison, she was honored as four-time All-GAC, three of which were first team selections.
"
Lara Haring-Lovett was a four-year starter that often flew under the radar because of her quiet demeanor and often thankless role as an outside back," said White. "She worked tirelessly every game, often playing end line to end line for 90 minutes."
Current Goalkeeper Griffith has played for the Bison from 2017-19 and has one year left with the team. While a Bison she has been honored as a three-time All-GAC selection, two of which are first-team, and was the 2017 GAC Goalkeeper of the year.
"Griffith thankfully has one more year with us," said White. "She made an immediate impact for us in goal and has brought great vocal leadership to the team. She is also currently a captain."
