FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Liebner, Freeman selected as CCSA Regional Skiers of the Year

Northern Michigan’s Andy Liebner and Green Bay’s Carolyn Freeman have been named the CCSA Regional Skiers of the Year for 2010-2011. The duo was selected for the honor by the CCSA coaches at their annual meeting.

Liebner wrapped up a stellar season for the Wildcats by earning double All-American honors at the NCAA Championships, taking eighth in the classic race and ninth in the freestyle event. Having finished on the CCSA podium in all but one event this season, including two wins at the CCSA Championships, Liebner earned all-conference first team honors and wrapped up the season as the conference’s second-best scoring skier.

“Andy is the type of athlete who never stops trying to improve on all of his skills and abilities,” Northern Michigan head coach Sten Fjeldheim said. “He is constantly trying to improve himself as not just an athlete but also as a person. I truly enjoyed working with Andy and I look forward to working with him again the future. “

Freeman, meanwhile, closed out her Green Bay career in style, winning five races throughout the CCSA season. Also earning all-conference first-team honors, Freeman was the region’s top finisher in the NCAA Championships 5K freestyle event, taking 15th place. She also won the NCAA Central Regional classic race, and claimed the CCSA Championships skate race title as well.

“Carolyn has been impressing our school and athletic department in Green Bay since her freshmen year,” Green Bay assistant coach Steve Teclaw said. “But I know she was never in it for the glory or the recognition. Carolyn always wanted to do her best and make every effort to promote to sport of Nordic skiing.

“However, recognitions such as the skier of the year are always nice to see. The award is well deserved: it's a great way to give a pat on the back and show Carolyn that her devotion and selfless contributions to the sport and region were truly appreciated.”