Led by captains Stephanie Eyler (Thurmont/Catoctin) and Taylor Zimmerman (Jarrettsville/John Carroll), the Stevenson women's soccer team raised $3,048 for Baltimore Child Abuse Center in an effort to raise awareness and help the children and families served by BCAC.

"The team raised an astonishing amount of money for BCAC by dedicating their season to help this very worthwhile cause," said head coach Graeme Millar. "I am very honored to be a part of such a caring group of young ladies. They devoted their time and energy on their own will to help children in need."

"I am so very proud of my girls," added Millar. "Stephanie and Taylor came up with this idea completely on their own, organized everything and truly did our community a service. They are amazing leaders that I am proud to coach and are an inspiration not only to our athletic
department, but the University as a whole."

Throughout the season, the Mustangs raised money through pledges and donations for team achievements, including wins, goals, shutouts and postseason victories.

"The team wore blue shoe laces to help spark awareness and wrote BCAC on their wrists each game to remind them who they were playing for," said Millar. "Along with raising money, the players took turns going to BCAC each week to play with children, clean the center, organize paperwork or whatever needed to be done that particular day."

Stevenson finished the season with 14 wins, one shy of the school record, 48 goals, 11 shutouts and two postseason victories by advancing to the title games of the ECAC Division III South Championship.

"We are so appreciative of the Stevenson University women's soccer team's help throughout their 2011 season," said Jennifer Noparstak, MSW, Director of Development for BCAC. "Knowing that they are supporting the children and families who are experiencing trauma, is
incredibly powerful."

It is estimated that 1 in 3 girls and 1 in 7 boys will be sexually abused before they reach the age of 18. BCAC helps give a voice and new beginnings to these children.

BCAC is a non-profit organization that provides services at no cost and is a resource whenever needed. They rely on the generosity of individuals, foundations, corporations and the Federal and State governments in order to fulfill its mission.

Last year, BCAC served 887 children and families.

"We hope to continue our partnership with the BCAC next year and continue to raise awareness about child abuse," said Millar. "Thank you to everybody that donated. We hope to continue to support children in need."