Women’s soccer freshman Lauren Gierman put together a strong first year to put her at No. 4 on Sports’ list of top five newcomers.

Gierman was named to the All-MAC Freshman team, leading NIU in points (nine) and scoring (three). She had a knack for timely goals, firing the opening salvo against Central Michigan on Sept. 26 and then hitting the game-winner in overtime.

Gierman is in line to have a big career after highlighting a strong freshman class for the Huskies.

“It definitely shows [Ross] and the other coaches the potential that we have and where we can play and who can play with who best,” said Gierman, according to an Oct. 27 Northern Star article. “I think it definitely sets [us] up for next year to work with the incoming freshmen. We know how to play. We’re used to the speed of play and just all around on the field.”