The Pitt men’s soccer team emerged as a powerhouse in 2020, and one of the more unheralded but essential cogs in that machine was Panthers defender Jasper Löeffelsend. Thanks in part to his selfless play and eye for scoring opportunities, Pitt became an offensive juggernaut. But the German standout was recognized by the ACC on Wednesday for his efficient play on defense, earning ACC Defensive Player of the Year honors.
Löeffelsend was a key member of a Pitt defense that recorded four shutouts in seven games this spring, but the Panthers back line was stout all season. In fact, it kept games manageable by allowing one or fewer goals in nine of the team’s 15 games this season, and that was one of the keys to Pitt’s success.