Judson’s Burke earns national honor

Judson University men’s soccer senior Corey Burke has been named the National Christian College Athletic Association National Player of the Year.

Burke, the son of Judson coach Steve Burke, was presented his award at the NCCAA National Championship kickoff dinner in Kissimmee, Fla., on Tuesday. The Eagles, who placed third in the NCCAA tournament last season, are participating in the national finals again this week.

Additionally, Burke became the first Judson men’s soccer player to be named to the CoSIDA Academic all-American team. He is the sixth men’s soccer player in Eagles’ history to be named the NCCAA National Player of the Year.

“Corey was totally surprised with the award,” said Steve Burke. “It was one of those moments you cherish with your son so you will not ever forget the moment. It was an honor to be there and to be part of this special award from the NCCAA.”

Burke has 4 goals and 4 assists for the season as he’s helped Judson to a 13-8-1 record. In three years at Judson he has started 48 matches, played in 62 and has 15 goals and 9 assists. He was a member of the 2009 NCCAA National Championship team at Judson.

Burke, a Wheaton Academy graduate from West Chicago, was the 2010 A.O. Duer Award winner, which goes to the top NAIA junior athlete in the country.