COOKEVILLE, Tenn. – It takes the collective effort of an entire roster to help propel a program toward achieving new heights. Each player, regardless of quantity of playing of time or volume of statistics, serves a crucial role in a team's march to success. In the case of Tennessee Tech soccer player Courtney Manning, her commitment and active engagement within the program has been undeniable in TTU's recent prosperity, and her contributions have been recognized as such with the Tennessee Tech Athletic Department's Unsung Leader Award for the month of December.
The Golden Eagles recently wrapped up a 2016 season that will go down in the record books as one of the best in school history. The squad's 11-6-4 record marked the most wins since 2002, while also tying the 2004 and 2002 clubs for fewest losses in a season. While injuries kept Manning sidelined, that didn't stop the sophomore midfielder from making a significant impact, one that did not go unnoticed by Tech head Coach Steve Springthorpe.
"Courtney has been a great teammate since joining the program two years ago," Springthorpe claimed. "Her injury situation has not allowed her to play or compete in games, but that hasn't stopped her at any point from being a model teammate. She has been helpful to our program in a variety of ways and has assisted the coaches, players and team managers whenever needed."
Never an easy task to not be able to contribute on the field, Manning has taken her situation in stride, doing anything and everything it takes to be a good teammate. This was never more apparent than during the OVC Tournament semifinals, when an "all hands on deck" approach is necessary.
Following Tech's 3-0 win over Belmont in the first round of the playoff tournament, the scene for tourney's final four shifted to Murray, Ky. where roster limitations kept Manning out of uniform. Despite not being able to participate in any on-field capacity, she maintained a selfless approach that embodied the characteristics of a true leader.
"Even during that tough time for Courtney, she still gave all of herself in helping off the field and with many managerial opportunities," Springthorpe said. "Overall she has accepted her role and has been a mark of positivity to her team. She loves her team and in return there is a love and appreciativeness that the team has for her. Courtney has helped bring this program to where it is today."
One student-athlete each month, nominated by members of the athletics staff, is selected and recognized for exemplifying outstanding leadership qualities. The leadership can be shown on the field, in the weight room, at practice, in the classroom, in study hall, on campus, in the community, for a student club or organization.
This award honors a varsity student-athlete who has made a positive impact on their team and the Tennessee Tech community as a whole, through his or her dedication to demonstrating leadership traits, such as:
* Keep Learning, Growing, and Improving
* Follow Through with Excellence
* Accomplish More than Expected
* Inspire and Motivate Others
Photo by Jim Dillon
