CINCINNATI - Xavier men's soccer junior defender Nick Hagglund was named to the 2012 NSCAA Continental Tire NCAA Division I Men's All-America Second Team on Friday becoming the first player in program history to earn such an honor.

"What a well-deserved honor for Nick was the program's first ever conference Defender of the Year and now its first ever All-American," head coach Andy Fleming said. "Nick arrived here three years ago as an athlete who played soccer and has grown into a soccer player who is athletic.

"This recognition is thrilling for our program and a testament to his wonderful teammates, assistant coaches and the extra work he's put in to grow his game. As his senior year looms we are all excited to see him grow into the leader of this group and for his star to continue to rise, along with that of Xavier soccer."

 

Known as one of the best headers in the nation, Hagglund has gained famed throughout his career as a reliable and athletic center back. The graduate of Lakota West was the Atlantic 10 Defender of the Year and was named to the MAC Hermann Trophy Watch List and two All-America preseason teams. 

He was also named to his second-straight Atlantic 10 First Team and was a NSCAA All-Region First Team selection last year.

Hagglund, a native of Cincinnati and graduate of Lakota West, helped the Musketeers to their best season in program history. He started all 22 matches for the Musketeers and registered two goals and four assists.

Xavier finished the season with a 14-5-2 record after reaching the second round of the NCAA Tournament. The Musketeers final loss of the season came against Indiana, which is one of four teams playing in the College Cup this weekend.

All-Region awards will be announced by the NSCAA later this month.