Dec. 17, 2008

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. - After helping lead North Carolina to a national runner-up finish at the College Cup, freshmen Billy Schuler, Sheanon Williams and Kirk Urso were honored Wednesday with a spot on the Soccer America Men's Freshman Team of the Year.

Schuler and Williams claimed a spot on the first team, while Urso was second-team selection. Schuler, who played in all 24 games and made 16 starts, led all UNC rookies with 13 points on four goals and five assists. He netted the game-winner in the NCAA second round win over Jacksonville.

Williams started all 24 games at center back for the Tar Heels and tallied four points on a goal and two assists. He was named to the ACC All-Freshman Team.

Urso scored twice in the NCAA Tournament, including the quarterfinal game-winner against Northwestern, and finished with 12 points on three goals and a team-best six assists. He played in 19 matches and made 11 starts.

Both Urso and Williams are training this week in Florida with the U.S. Under-20 National Team.