Brandt named Hermann Trophy Watch List [updated]

One more note from an already great preseason for the mens soccer team. On Monday, Defender Thomas Brandt was named to the 2011 Hermann Trophy Watch List - an award given annually to the top player in mens and womens collegiate soccer.

The 5-foot-11 fullback has garnered recognition from around the country for his strong play and outstanding leadership. Now a two-time captain, Brandt was a highly touted recruit when he first joined the Quakers and has not disappointed. He anchored a back line that allowed only .82 goals per game, good for second best in the Ivy League, while scoring five goals. The Palmyra, Pa. native started all 19 games last season and 16 (out of 17) the year before.

This announcement comes only days after Brandt was named a 2nd team Preseason All-American by CollegeSoccerNews.com. He earned All-Ivy and All-Region honors as Penn won an NCAA tournament game for the first time since 2002.

The only other Ivy selection was Princeton forward Antoine Hoppenot, who was a Hermann semifinalist last year. Hoppenot led the Ivy League in goals last season with nine.

Update: On Wednesday, Brandt was also named one of 30 nominees for the Lowe's Senior CLASS award, an honor which recognizes players for contributions to four areas: community, classroom, character and competition. The list will be cut to 10 midseason.