Kutztown’s Curtis Earns Second Straight All-America Soccer Honor
Kutztown’s Curtis Earns Second Straight All-America Soccer honor
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Kutztown University women’s soccer star Bridget Curtis has done it again. The senior defender from Warrington, Pa., has been named to the United Soccer Coaches 2024 NCAA Division II All-America Second Team, marking her second consecutive All-america selection.
Curtis joins an exclusive group of five players nationwide who have earned multiple All-America honors this year. this notable feat solidifies her place among the elite defenders in Division II soccer.
“Bridget’s dedication and leadership have been instrumental to our program’s success,” said Kutztown head coach Erik Burstein. “Earning All-America honors for the second straight year is a testament to her talent and hard work.”
Curtis anchored a formidable Kutztown defense that recorded nine shutouts during the 2024 season. She also contributed offensively, scoring three goals and providing two assists.The Golden bears finished the season with a 12-5-6 record,secured the PSAC runner-up title,and advanced to the second round of the NCAA Division II Championship.
Over her four-year career at Kutztown, Curtis has been a consistent force on the field, starting 82 of 83 games. She has tallied nine goals and three assists for a total of 21 points,helping the Golden Bears reach the NCAA tournament every season.
Along with her All-America honors, Curtis has been recognized as a three-time All-Atlantic Region selection by both the United Soccer Coaches and the D2CCA. She is also a four-time All-PSAC East First Team member and was named the 2023 PSAC East Defensive Athlete of the Year. Curtis’s academic achievements are equally impressive, earning her two College Sports Communicators Academic All-District honors and a 2023 CSC Academic All-America Third Team selection.
Curtis’s latest All-America honor marks the 14th in program history for Kutztown University women’s soccer. She joins Maddie Mohr and Kayla argen as the only three-time All-Americans in program history.
Spotlight on Excellence: An Interview with Kutztown’s Bridget Curtis
NewsDirectory3.com: Bridget, congratulations on your second consecutive All-America honor! This is a remarkable achievement. How does it feel to be recognized among the best in Division II soccer?
Bridget Curtis: It’s an incredible honor to be recognized twice. It truly means a lot to me, and it reflects the hard work and dedication I’ve put into my game over the past four years.
NewsDirectory3.com: Your consistent performance as a defender has been instrumental to Kutztown’s success.What aspects of your defensive game do you focus on improving each season?
Bridget Curtis: I always aim to be a reliable anchor for our defense, anticipating plays, communicating effectively with my teammates, and winning those crucial tackles. I strive to be a leader on the field and inspire those around me.
NewsDirectory3.com: Nine shutouts this season is testament to the strength of your defense. How would you describe the team dynamic and the camaraderie within the defensive unit?
Bridget Curtis: We have a very tight-knit group. We trust each other implicitly and communicate constantly.
NewsDirectory3.com: Beyond your defensive prowess, you also contribute offensively with goals and assists.Is it a conscious effort to balance your attacking and defending responsibilities?
Bridget Curtis: While defense is my primary focus, I try to contribute offensively whenever the opportunity arises. I feel comfortable moving forward and creating chances, but my main priority is always the team’s success.
NewsDirectory3.com: Looking back on your four years at Kutztown, what are some of the most memorable moments?
Bridget Curtis: Reaching the NCAA tournament every year has been an amazing experience.
NewsDirectory3.com: As one of only three players in program history to earn three All-America honors, what advice would you give to aspiring young soccer players?
bridget Curtis: Hard work, determination, and a genuine love for the game are essential. Believe in yourself, surround yourself with supportive people, and never stop striving to improve.