After scoring two goals in her first start donning the Maroon and Gold, University of Minnesota forward Caroline Birdsell has been named Freshman of the Week, as announced by the league office on Tuesday afternoon.
The weekly award marks Birdsell’s first from the Big Ten. She is the first Gopher to receive the nod since Sophia Boman (March 30, 2020) and first to earn it in a debut since Taylor Uhl (Aug. 22, 2011).
Birdsell, a native of Wilmette, Ill., scored both of Minnesota’s goals against BIG EAST opponent, Creighton, last Thursday. Despite being down 1-0, Birdsell finished both the game-tying and game-winning goals, less than a minute apart.
Against the Bluejays, Birdsell led the Gophers in goals (2), points (4), shots (4), and shots on goal (3). The redshirt freshman also competed for 79 minutes, the most of any Minnesota forward in the 2024 home opener.
Birdsell and the Gophers return to action on Sunday, Aug. 25 on the road against St. Thomas. Minnesota comes back to Elizabeth Lyle Robbie Stadium to host Army on Sept. 5.
(info courtesy of Gopher Sports)
