Blake Lieberman of Trinity University, a junior on the men's soccer team has been tabbed as the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference Character and Community Male Student-Athlete of the Week for the week beginning February 11.
The SCAC award honors the efforts of student-athletes who excel in the field of athletics, and also serve their campus and community.
The Tiger goalkeeper has volunteered in numerous activities in a cause very close to his heart. Lieberman is a childhood cancer survivor and has spent many hours helping children battling the same condition. The Cypress, Texas, resident was diagnosed with Ewing’s sarcoma at the age of 11, after noticing a lump on his lower back. He underwent many rounds of chemotherapy, and was cleared of the disease in 2009.
Lieberman has given his time as a counselor at Camp Periwinkle, a Houston, Texas, summer camp for cancer patients and siblings. He also was a trainer for the Kick Cancer Soccer Camp, which brings players together for a day of soccer fun and raises awareness and funds in support of pediatric cancer research.
The tireless and dedicated Lieberman is also involved with similar organizations such as 1 Million 4 Anna, Bald is Beautiful, Stuff the Sleigh, and Nico’s Dream. He has visited Texas Children’s Hospital to speak to patients and their families. Lieberman shares his personal story and assists in any way possible. Additionally, Lieberman has participated in promotional videos and interviews to promote the organizations.
Lieberman also fiercely guards the Tiger soccer goal. Last season, Lieberman posted 60 saves and registered a .59 goals-against average over 22 games. He stands fourth in Trinity’s career record books with 122 saves in his column. Lieberman’s performance gained his election to the All-SCAC Honorable Mention Team for the second consecutive year.
The Tigers benefitted from Lieberman’s diligence as Trinity finished the season with a 17-2-3 overall record. D3soccer.com ranked Trinity eighth in the NCAA Division III final poll, while United Soccer Coaches posted a ranking of #9.
Trinity won its seventh consecutive SCAC Championship and advanced to the NCAA Division III Tournament for the 17th year in a row. Led by 28th-year Head Coach Paul McGinlay, the Tigers fought their way to NCAA Round of 16 for the sixth occasion in the past seven seasons.