In a well-deserved recognition of their exceptional performances on the field, Damien Barker John and Sander Roed from the University of Louisville men’s soccer team have been named United Soccer Coaches All-Region honorees. Both players have earned a spot on the Third Team All-South Region, showcasing their incredible talent and contributions to the team.
For Roed, this marks his second All-Region selection, having previously been named a second team honoree in 2022. He has consistently been a key player in Louisville’s offensive attack, and his abilities did not go unnoticed. Roed finished the season with five goals and led the Cardinals with nine assists, tying for the fourth-most in a single season in program history. His standout performance came in the ACC Championship quarterfinal round, where he notched a hat trick and an assist in a thrilling 4-3 win over Notre Dame. This incredible feat marked the first hat trick by a Louisville player since 2017 and set an ACC Championship record with seven points. Roed’s impact on the team cannot be understated.
Barker John, in his sophomore season, burst onto the scene with his impressive play as a forward. He led the Cardinals with nine goals and 21 points, rounding out his outstanding season with three assists. Barker John’s ability to find the back of the net was truly remarkable, as he registered three multi-goal matches, a feat achieved by only three Louisville players since 2001. His contributions on the field were crucial to the team’s success.
The recognition of their accomplishments does not stop there. Barker John and Roed have also been invited to the fourth-annual adidas MLS College Showcase, an event that will take place in Phoenix, Arizona from December 6th to 9th. This invitation further demonstrates the high regard in which these two players are held within the soccer community.
The Louisville men’s soccer team as a whole had an impressive season, finishing with a 12-6-3 record and securing a berth in the NCAA Tournament for the third consecutive year. The team’s success can be attributed in large part to the exceptional performances of players like Barker John and Roed.
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