WILMINGTON, N.C. ? The UNC Wilmington women's soccer team is being honored by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) as a recipient of the 2008 Ethics and Sportsmanship Award.

      The Seahawks earned the distinction by tallying no red cards in 2008 and receiving only six yellow cards throughout the season, the fewest in the Colonial Athletic Association. The team was recognized with a bronze award for its commitment to fair play and good sportsmanship.

      “This award is a credit to our team's disciplined approach to playing,” said head coach Paul Cairney. “We preach always play tough, be physical, but respect the referee's decisions.” 

      UNCW is one of only 10 NCAA Division I soccer teams to receive the award and the only member of the CAA to collect the honor.

      The Seahawks finished the 2008 season with a 12-7-1 overall mark and an 8-3 conference record, winning seven of their final eight contests to end the regular season tied for second in the CAA standings and match their highest conference finish in program history.