The University of Alabama at Birmingham Athletics
11/5/2026 10:02:00 AM | Men's Soccer
BIRMINGHAM – UAB freshman defender Tim Pusback was named the American Conference Freshman of the Year, the league announced on Thursday, following a strong debut season with the Blazers.
Pusback made an immediate impact on the UAB backline, starting all 15 matches and logging 1,311 minutes on the pitch. The Bamberg, Germany native played a key role in a defensive unit that recorded three shutouts this season while also contributing offensively with an assist and two shots, including one on goal.
In addition to his Freshman of the Year selection, Pusback earned two American Conference weekly honors during the season. He was named Defensive Player of the Week after helping lead the Blazers to a 1-0 shutout victory over Temple, contributing to the clean sheet while recording a shot.
2026 American Conference Men's Soccer Awards
Offensive Player of the Year: Santiago Possu, Gr., F, FIU
Defensive Player of the Year: Harris O'Connor, 5th, D, Missouri State*
Midfielder of the Year: Luc Achermann-Stanfield, Sr., M, Tulsa
Goalkeeper of the Year: Carlito Saylon, Jr., GK, Tulsa
Freshman of the Year: Tim Pusback, Fr., D, UAB
Coaching Staffs of the Year: Missouri State, Tulsa
Team Fair Play Award: Missouri State
*Unanimous selection
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