SU defender Coco Vandiver added to Tewaaraton Award Watchlist
Syracuse defender Coco Vandiver has been added to the Tewaaraton Award Watchlist, the organization announced Thursday. Aaron Hammer | Staff Photographer
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Syracuse defender Coco Vandiver has been added to the Tewaaraton Award Watchlist, the organization announced Thursday. Vandiver joins attacks Emma Ward and Olivia Adamson on the list, who were named as preseason nominees.
In her junior season with the Orange, Vandiver has excelled as the most experienced player on defense. As a sophomore last season, Vandiver started every game but was outshone by veterans Katie Goodale and Bianca Chevarie.
But with those two gone, she’s taken off in 2025. She’s already surpassed her totals from last year through 11 games with 32 caused turnovers and 23 ground ball pickups. Her 2.91 caused turnovers per game is sixth in the country.
Vandiver’s steady presence has been paramount amid a slew of setbacks. Both Julia Basciano and Lexi Reber, who started on defense in SU’s season opener against UAlbany, have suffered injuries and been deemed “unavailable” by head coach Kayla Treanor. Still, Vandiver, sophomore Kaci Benoit and goalie Daniella Guyette have led the revamped unit to rank 29th nationally with a .464 save percentage.
For the Orange, who enter Saturday’s game against No. 11 Virginia on a three-game winning streak, Vandiver’s success will be key to continuing their winning ways.
