NEWARK, N.J. (Nov. 5th) – Delaware State defender Latoya Lesane was named the Newcomer of the Year by the Great West Conference on Thursday night at the league's Champions Dinner. 

Lesane started all 14 matches she played for the Hornets, notching a goal on six shots for the season.  But it was her rugged defending that earned her the trophy.  She became an anchor of the Hornet backline, playing all but 12 minutes of the 14 matches where she was available. 

“It's really a well-deserved award,” said head coach Nitan Soni.  “It's especially nice because it's recognition from other coaches in the conference about the consistency of her efforts.  She's a great reflection of our team efforts this year.”

“I had a lot of fun this season, and I really like all the girls,” said the sophomore Lesane, who transferred from Ferrum University.  “It's been a blast this season.  I want to dedicate this Nicole Megaloudis, a friend of mine from high school that passed away in a car accident.  I've done some work for the Nicole Megaloudis Foundation, and I want her and her family to know they're in my heart.”

The Hornets will take on Utah Valley University tomorrow at 2 p.m. in the first round of the Great West Conference Tournament.  Live stats for the matches can be found here.