Clan program hands out its year-end awards

The Simon Fraser University men's soccer team wrapped up a historic season with their year-end awards ceremony night earlier this month.

A total of five awards were handed out, while the four graduating seniors were also recognized for their outstanding contributions to SFU's undefeated men's soccer this season.

Carlo Basso was recognized as the team's top goal scorer.

The 2011 Great Northwest Athletic conference co-player of the year led the Clan, and the conference, with 16 goals, averaging 0.84 per game. It was the second season in a row that Basso led the Clan in scoring.

The SFUEFA Cup champion for the 2011 season was goalkeeper Sheldon Steenhuis. The cup is presented annually to the player who accumulates the most points in drills and competitions during the team's training sessions.

The most inspirational player award, voted on by his peers, was presented to Kyle Knees.

Knees suffered a seasonending injury early in the season and proved to be an inspiration for his teammates in how he handled the injury and his work ethic as he recovered.

Helge Neumann and Carson Gill received the captain's award after serving as captains during the Clan's 2011 GNAC championship run.

Finally, the players selected Anthony DiNicolo as the recipient of the player of the year award. DiNicolo, who was also recognized in the graduating players portion of the evening, was also named to the Great Northwest Athletic Conference allacademic team and as a first team GNAC all-star.

Josh Bennett was also recognized as an all-star in his last season with the Clan. After completing his degree, Bennett will be pursuing a professional soccer career. He finished his career in a tie for 29th spot on the Clan's all-time goals scored list with 29 in his career.

Carson Gill is another native British Columbian, who capped off a stellar career as a member of the Clan defence this year. Like DiNicolo, Gill was named to the the GNAC all-academic team this season.

Max Baessato also departs SFU this year after suiting up for three seasons with the Clan.