CM Life soccer athlete of the year: Shay Mannino

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Shay Mannino

Shay Mannino has left her mark on the Central Michigan women’s soccer program. The all-time shutout leader for CMU set the record in her senior season as she helped lead the Chippewas to back-to-back Mid-American Conference championships.

CMU made back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances — in large part because of Mannino’s play.

In 20 games last season, she posted a 0.57 goals against average, making 43 saves and earned a 13-3-1 record, two wins coming via shutout.

Mannino was a true leader on the field, constantly communicating with her teammates, especially the defense.

She holds three CMU records: wins, GAA and shutouts. She recorded 45 wins, a 0.71 career GAA and earned 31 shutouts.

The goalkeeper provided veteran leadership for the program, especially to upcoming junior Stefanie Turner, who split time with Mannino in 2010.

Honorable Mention: Liesel Toth

Liesel Toth was the leader on the defense. She always stressed communication on the field and it proved to be important as the Chippewas were first in the MAC in goals allowed. CMU only allowed 13 goals all season, good enough for a 0.59 goals against average.

The upcoming senior was the backbone of the defense, but still contributed offensively. She scored four goals and finished the season tied for second on the team in points with 11.

Honorable Mention: Laura Twidle

Laura Twidle was arguably the most consistent scoring option for the CMU women’s soccer team in 2010.

She led the team in goals (8) and also in points (18). She started 15 of 21 games last season, but found ways to score goals. The first-team All-Mid-American Conference selection had two multi-goal games last season and scored a goal in the MAC Tournament championship game against Western Michigan on Nov. 7 in Toledo, OH.