The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) announced its 2012 Women’s Soccer All-America team and two members of the Benedictine women’s soccer team were among those on the team.

Forward Bethany Smith (Soph., Overland Park) and midfielder Erin O’Brien (Sr., Overland Park) were both named on the All-America honorable mention list for their efforts on the field this season.

Smith led the Heart of America Athletic Conference (HAAC) in points with 51 in her first season at Benedictine. She tallied a conference-high 19 goals and finished tied for first in the HAAC with 13 assists.

“Bethany’s ability to possess, pass, and finish, makes her an outstanding player,” said Raven head coach Lincoln Roblee. “Although she had a fantastic season, her best is yet to come. The most important stat she is concerned with is winning, and I’m confident with her determination, we will continue to do even more of that during her next two years.”

Smith was ranked among the NAIA leaders in shots on goal per game (No. 6, 3.24) and total assists (No. 8).

O’Brien was tied for fifth in the HAAC in assists with nine and was a key part of the Ravens success from her midfield position. She also scored eight goals this season, finishing in the top 10 in the HAAC in points with 25.

“Erin was extremely dominating in midfield,” said Coach Roblee. “Her playmaking skills and goal-scoring ability combined with her tremendous work rate made her standout in every game. She is a great leader and this honor justly solidifies her place in history as one of Benedictine’s best players.”

Smith and O’Brien were both named first-team All-HAAC this season while Smith was named the HAAC Offensive Player of the Year.

— BC Sports Information —