The Lipscomb Lady Bisons softball team has received a number of Atlantic Sun Conference honors for 2009.

Freshman pitcher Whitney Kiihnl has been named “Freshman of the Year”. This marks the first time a Lady Bisons softball player has earned A-Sun Player of the Year honors in any category. The conference coaches and sports information directors vote on the team.

“I think it is very well-earned,” said Peck. “Whitney is very deserving.

“I feel like she is the best freshman in the conference. She really stood out and the impact on our team and our success this year has been greater than any other freshman in the conference.”

Kiihnl is second overall in the A-Sun in ERA (1.37), third in opponent batting average (.197), fourth in strikeouts (197), fifth in wins (16) and sixth in innings pitched (174).

Like most freshmen, Kiihnl has experienced both highs and lows this season, but she stays on an even keel emotionally.

“Whitney is very unassuming about what she does,” said Peck. “She goes out and does her business. She is one of the most humble kids I have ever been around.

“Her teammates know that game in and game out she is going to give us a chance to win. She is going to be out there giving her all every time.

“She has handled pressure situations all year starting with her season debut against No. 19 Louisiana–Lafayette, which was a loss, but a good outing.”