The Stony Brook women's soccer program officially wrapped up the 2016 season, holding its team banquet on Saturday, Dec. 10. The banquet brought the team, coaching staff, support staff and those close to the program together to celebrate the season, accomplishments and graduating class.
 
"The banquet was a great opportunity to get our team together and celebrate the fall season, but more specifically to honor our seniors," said head coach Brendan Faherty. "Each one of them has made a lasting impression on me and this program. With their actions, they have shown returning players how to be a leader and a great teammate. We will miss them, but are excited to know they will be cheering us on as alumnae in future seasons."
 
After an impressive year that saw a Division-I era six-game win streak, eight shutouts and the team's first playoff appearance since 2013, the team issued its annual awards, which included Most Improved, Goal of the Year, Seawolf of the Year and Player of the Year.
 
Sophomore Julie Johnstonbaugh was named the team's Most Improved player after earning a starting job in increasing her production. Playing nearly the same number of minutes in the midfield, the Neshanic Station, New Jersey, native scored three goals and assisted four more, playing in 19 of the team's 20 games.
 
"This award is special to receive because it shows that my hard work in the off-season did not go unnoticed by the people that mean the most to me - my teammates and coaches," Johnstonbaugh said. "For me, the meaning of this award is great because it shows that anyone can make an impact on their environment if they just choose to listen, practice, and apply what their coaches teach them to get better. Lastly, it shows that if you want something badly enough, working hard will ultimately be paid off."
 
Senior Amy Thompson earned Goal of the Year as well as co-Player of the Year. In her only season with the Seawolves, the Luxembourg City, Luxembourg, native tallied five goals, including three game-winners, and four assists. She finished second on the team in both categories. Thompson's goal against Maine was a relay off a free kick. Hannah Groth sent in the free kick that Priscilla Wiggins headed back towards Thompson to help seal the 2-0 victory over the Black Bears.
 
"It's a real honor to receive these awards and it means a lot, but the team means so much more, without them none of these awards would've happened," said Thompson. "Without teammates there would be no goal, and without the entire athletic staff, I wouldn't have been able to step foot on the field again. I would like to say a huge thank you to all of my teammates, coaches and the support staff."
 
Priscilla Wiggins was named Seawolf of the Year and co-Player of the Year after starting all 20 games in her final season at Stony Brook. The Fresno, California, native helped the Seawolves tally eight shutouts while also assisting four goals on they year. She finished second on the team in minutes played and earned First Team All-America East honors.
 
"I was extremely humbled to be chosen by my teammates and coaches to receive the Seawolf of the Year award, because it's a true reflection of the impact this special team has had on me," said Wiggins. "My teammates and coaches pushed me to be the best I could be on and off the field, and I couldn't be more appreciative. Sharing the Player of the Year award with Amy is extremely special as well, as we truly connected on the field and we get to graduate together as close friends off the field. I am extremely thankful to all my teammates and coaches for their trust and support this season."