U soccer star Maren Harper was honored with a spot on the Verizon Women’s Soccer Academic All-American Team for District VIII. The team consists of the top female student-athletes in the country. There were 11 spots for District VIII.

In order to be considered for the award, student-athletes must maintain a 3.2 GPA or better, start or be an important reserve on the team and be at least in their second year at their current school.

Harper and the other District VIII honorees will advance to the Verizon All-American ballot. The winners will be announced on Feb. 7.

Harper was one of the top defenders on the U squad, starting all 15 games she played in. The junior co-captain was sidelined part of the season after injuring her ankle in a preseason game, but returned in fine fashion, helping the U defense become one of the best in the Mountain West Conference.

Harper helped the team to an 11-7 record. She has been a three-year starter since becoming a Ute in 1999. The political science major has been an Academic All Conference performer each year.

Harper joins teammate Amy Kofoed with offseason recognitions. Kofoed was recently named to the SoccerBuzz All-West Second Team just last week.