The Gwynedd-Mercy College women's soccer team has cause to pat itself on the back.

The Division III team was the recipient of the Best Sportspersonship Award, given annually to the women's soccer team at the Division I, II or III level in the Eastern Pennsylvania area that best displays good sportsmanship and conducts itself with respect toward its opponents, teammates, fans and officials.

This award is voted on by the entire body of the Eastern Pennsylvania and District National Intercollegiate Soccer Officials Association.

"It is outstanding when student-athletes represent the school in a way that makes everyone proud," said Keith Mondillo, director of athletics at Gwynedd-Mercy College.

"In addition to winning the Pennsylvania Athletic Conference Championship and receiving a bid to the NCAA Division III tournament, our ladies were singled out over all of the Division I, II and III soccer teams in the Eastern Pennsylvania area as a class act. The fact that this award came from the officials signifies a tremendous deal of respect for our program."

-- Kay Hawes