CEDARVILLE, Ohio - Former Lady Jacket soccer standout Deanne Bradshaw has been selected as one of the Top 30 honorees for the 2014 NCAA Woman of the Year.

Bradshaw, who was chosen from a list of 130 conference nominees nationwide, is the representative from the Great Midwest Athletic Conference. She is one of the ten finalists from Division II and will join the ten finalists from both Divisions I and III at the NCAA Woman of the Year awards banquet in Indianapolis on Oct. 19.

"It's incredible and such an honor and a blessing. I'm really thankful for it," remarked Bradshaw. "There are so many amazing and deserving female student-athletes out there. It's very special to be in the top 30."

A native of Troy, Mich., Bradshaw graduated from Cedarville University in May with a 3.94 GPA as an organizational communication major. She tallied 8 goals and 6 assists for 22 points during her four-year career while starting 59 of the 74 matches in which she played.

"I want our University and our fans to understand what an incredible accomplishment this is for Deanne," stated Athletic Director Dr. Alan Geist. "This is another great opportunity presented by the NCAA to showcase one of our student-athletes and she is outstanding. The recognition is well-deserved."

On the field, Bradshaw earned All-G-MAC First Team accolades. She was an NCCAA Scholar-Athlete, earned a spot on the Academic All-Ohio Division II Second Team, and was part of the G-MAC Academic Team.

More importantly as a follower of Jesus Christ, Bradshaw states that her mission is to "minister to the exploited and hurting by understanding brokenness, restoring wholeness, and inspiring justice." Her passion has resulted in her involvement in countless ministries and missions trips.

Bradshaw will soon be heading to England for an opportunity with Urban Ministry in London. She'll gain experience serving inner-city youth while also continuing her education.

"Cedarville is an amazing school and I loved being a part of the soccer team," Bradshaw said. "It was the best group of girls I know and there are so many opportunities for us to serve there. I think that the most beautiful way to spend your life is to give back to others."

Each fall, the NCAA Woman of the Year selection committee chooses the Top 30 - 10 from each division - and then three finalists from each division.  The Committee on Women's Athletics selects the winner from the Top 9.  The Woman of the Year is announced at the annual awards dinner in Indianapolis.

See G-MAC STORY and Top 30 NCAA Woman of the Year Nominees