DePaul University Athletics
Dodd, Verdun,Connolly Named to All-BIG EAST First Team
5/8/2013 12:00:00 AM | SOFTBALL
May 8, 2013
TAMPA, Fla. - It took four years, but Samantha Dodd made it to the top of the class Wednesday night at the BIG EAST Conference awards banquet.
After being named All-BIG EAST Third Team in 2010 and 2011, Dodd culminated a memorable senior season by being selected to the All-BIG EAST First Team along with teammates Kirsten Verdun and Mary Connolly.
"It's a wonderful feeling to go out like this in your senior year," said Dodd, an all-conference outfielder. "This was something I wanted to accomplish, and it took me four years."
Verdun is three-for-three as a first-team selection, but the DePaul junior was getting a little apprehensive at the banquet.
"When nobody from DePaul was called up for All-BIG EAST second and third teams, I was getting a little nervous," said Verdun, chosen as a pitcher-utility player. "People were going to think we all showed up for nothing.
"This third time means a lot to me because consistency is the name of the game. It shows I'm continuing to improve in becoming a better player.
"This doesn't happen to any of us without the help of our teammates and coaches."
Connolly was chosen as the league's top designated player after being All-BIG EAST Third Team last year.
"It's a great feeling to know all the hard work you do in practice every day pays off," Connolly said. "It's an honor that comes to you because of how well you and your team have performed this season."
Dodd, Verdun and Connolly will lead the Blue Demons into Thursday's 9 a.m. BIG EAST Championship opener against Georgetown at USF Softball Stadium.
