Two from Women's Soccer Claim All-MIAA First Team Honors

Defender Jenna Mustapha and forward Natalie Hammer are honored.

Forward Natalie Hammer and defender Jenna Mustapha proved to be driving forces for the Hope College women's soccer team this fall.

The two juniors claimed All-MIAA First Team honors from the league's coaches for the 2022 season. They are joined by two teammates who made the All-MIAA Second Team: freshman defender Olivia Dieppa and junior forward Madison Holloway.

Hammer (Rockford, Michigan / Rockford HS) led the MIAA with six goals during eight league games and tied for second with 13 points. Hammer returned after missing last season due to a knee injury.

This is Hammer's second All-MIAA distinction after being a second-team honoree in the spring of 2021.

"Natalie is a leader on and off the field," head coach Leigh Sears said. "As a hard-working target forward, Nat has a sense for the goal and is able to capitalize on chances inside the box. As a teammate, she brings joy to the team along with encouragement and a sense of belonging."

Mustapha (Ada, Michigan / Forest Hills Northern) bolstered a Hope defense that finished MIAA play with a 0.63 goals against average. With a strong leg, the chemistry major also was a threat offensively on direct and indirect kicks.

Mustapha earned first-team honors for the third time during her Flying Dutch career.

"As a junior captain, Jenna continues to be the anchor of our backline. She organizes the defense, takes most of our restarts, and provides a consistent presence on the field," Sears said. "Coming off a major knee surgery at the end of last season, Jenna has shown determination and grit throughout her recovery and is so deserving of this honor."

Holloway (Macatawa, Michigan / Holland Christian) helped fuel the Hope offense with two goals and two assists during MIAA games.

This is the first All-MIAA distinction for the exercise science major.

"Madison is a dangerous threat up top," Sears said. "As a forward, her left foot stands out when playing crosses into the middle and taking long range shots. Her work ethic stands out on our team as she always shows up ready at the beginning of every season."

Dieppa (Hudsonville, Michigan / Hudsonville) made an immediate impact as a freshman with one goal and two assists during league games.

"Olivia has been a great addition to our program," Sears said. "She has been asked to do a lot as a freshman, and she has played her role well. Not only is she often asked to defend the opposition's best forward, she also is able to join the attack and provide great service along with scoring chances."

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