NORFOLK, Va. -- For the third straight year the Old Dominion women's soccer team was able to celebrate a conference title in a special setting on Monday night, the home of ODU President Brian O. Hemphill, Ph.D.
In a tradition that started when President Hemphill took office in 2021, any ODU championship winning team would be treated to a meal with the president and his family at their home. The Monarchs have done this now after winning the 2021 Conference USA title, the 2022 Sun Belt Conference title and now the 2023 Sun Belt Conference crown.
The players and coaching staff were present for a dinner meal with the first family that included comments from the president, team captains, coaches, and a "3-peat" bracelet presentation to each member of the championship team.
Old Dominion finished the season 13-3-5 and defeated James Madison 2-1 in double overtime to win the Sun Belt title on November 5 in Foley, Alabama. Emily Bredek was named Sun Belt Goalkeeper of the Year and was joined on the first team by Ece Turkoglu who was named Sun Belt Tournament Most Outstanding Player.
"We have been fortunate to have been able to celebrate in this way for the past three years, but it continues to get more and more special each year. Such a fantastic evening and we as a program couldn't be more grateful for the hospitality, support and generosity that President Hemphill and his family continue to show us," said ODU Head Coach Angie Hind.
"It really was special, and I am very sure not something that is done on many campuses across the country. Just a truly special way to honor our student-athletes and reiterate just how proud the campus is of their achievements. It was such a great evening."
President Hemphill Hosts Women's Soccer To Celebrate Championship Season
