Iowa Lakes Softball player, Alyssa Thorson, has been named the Iowa Community College Athletic Conference's Defensive Player of the Year. This award was bestowed upon her because of her tremendous defensive skills during the 2023 season. The award was voted on by the other coaches in the conference.

"I am honored to have received this award. It would not have been possible if it weren't for my teammates who play right next to me, my coaches who push me to be the best version of myself, and my family and friends who give endless support." Said Thorson on receiving this award.

Thorson, a sophomore from Omaha, Nebraska, is the daughter of Rob and Kirstin Thorson. She played in 44 of 54 games, only being sidelined for an injury in the middle of the season. She started every game in centerfield both this year and last and really solidified herself as the best outfielder in the conference. This year she had a .988 fielding percentage with 80 putouts, 3 assists, and 1 error. She made several diving plays, robbed homeruns, and threw runners out to help her team to a 35-19 record this season.

Coach King had this to say, "I am so excited that Alyssa Thorson was recognized for this award. There could not be a more deserving young lady than her. Alyssa is an absolute beast in the outfield! She makes difficult plays look easy and the impossible plays look difficult. She has single-handedly won some games for us by her ability to track a ball down in the outfield and to have no fear when diving."

Thorson is the first athlete since King has taken over the program to receive one of the conference's special awards. Thorson is still unsure of her plans for next season, but we are sure you will see her roaming around the outfield for a team this fall.

MEDIA: For more information, please contact Head Softball Coach, Katie King at (712) 362-8367 or the Iowa Lakes sports information office at (712) 362-7928.