KALAMAZOO, Mich. – Incoming Western Michigan men's soccer defender Aidan O'Connor has been named the Gatorade Michigan Boys Soccer Player of the Year. It is the second consecutive year he has earned the award.

The award, which recognizes not only outstanding athletic excellence, but also high standards of academic achievement and exemplary character demonstrated on and off the field, distinguishes O'Connor as Michigan's best high school boys soccer player. Now a finalist for the prestigious Gatorade National Boys Soccer Player of the Year award to be announced in June, O'Connor joins an elite alumni association of state award-winners in 12 sports.

"We could not be happier for Aidan, or more excited to have him join our program soon," head men's soccer coach Chad Wiseman said. "To win the award in consecutive seasons is quite an accomplishment. Aidan is another in-state prize for us as he will become the fifth consecutive Michigan Mr. Soccer recipient to join us in Kalamazoo."

In the fall, O'Connor led Forest Hills Northern High School in Grand Rapids to a 23-0-1 record and the Division II state championship. He anchored a defense that compiled 17 shutouts and allowed just eight goals. He chipped in offensively with 12 goals and four assists. The Michigan High School Soccer Coaches Association's (MIHSSCA) Mr. Soccer winner, he is a two-time MIHSSCA Dream Team selection.

Away from the field, O'Connor is a member of the school's Diversity Club and has volunteered locally on behalf of the Refugee Education Center in West Michigan and as a peer tutor.

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