UNC junior forward Kate Faasse has officially been crowned the best player in college soccer.

Faasse becomes the eighth Tar Heel to win the award, marking UNC’s 10th program winner overall (Cindy Parlow and Mia Hamm each won the award twice)—a record unmatched by any other school. This achievement cements her place among UNC legends like Mia Hamm, Kristine Lilly, and Crystal Dunn, who claimed this trophy on their way to iconic professional careers.

Hailing from Phoenix, Arizona, Faasse led the nation in scoring with 20 goals and an ACC-best 44 points, and her eight game-winning goals topped NCAA charts. She spearheaded North Carolina’s charge to its 23rd national championship, netting crucial goals throughout the postseason, including the golden goal in the semifinals.

Faasse’s victory continues the Atlantic Coast Conference’s dominance in the Hermann Trophy race. All three finalists this year hailed from the ACC—Duke’s Maggie Graham and Wake Forest’s Caiya Hanks were the runners-up. ACC players have now claimed the award for eight consecutive seasons.

UNC’s MAC Hermann Winners in the NWSL

UNC’s impact extends beyond the college game, with former Hermann Trophy winners leaving their mark on the NWSL as players, coaches, and team owners. Notable names include:

• Crystal Dunn (Gotham FC) - 2012
• Catherine Reddick (formerly Boston Breakers) - 2003
• Cindy Parlow (led the Portland Thorns to lifting the NWSL Championship trophy in 2013) - 1997 & 1998
• Tisha Venturini (Angel City FC founding investor) - 1994
• Mia Hamm (Angel City FC co-owner) - 1992 & 1993
• Kristine Lilly (Boston co-owner) - 1991
• Shannon Higgins - 1989