CONWAY - With the start of training camp just around the corner the first of what is sure to be many preseason honors bestowed upon the Coastal Carolina men's soccer team was handed out to Kjartan Sigurdsson, who was named one of 10 Sophomores To Watch by Top Drawer Soccer.

Sigurdsson, a central defender and 2011 Big South Freshman of the Year, was a key figure along the Chanticleer backline in 2011 that allowed only 22 goals through 22 games. The Iceland native started every game of his freshman campaign, helping the Chants to an impressive 18-4-0 record, a Big South regular season championship and NCAA Tournament second round appearance.

Sigurdsson, who earned both first team All-Big South and All-Freshman team honors last season, and his line mates held opponents to only 90 shots on goal and a dismal .101 shot percentage, while helping the Coastal goalkeepers combine for seven clean sheets.

In addition, head coach Shaun Docking also took advantage of Sigurdsson's 6-foot-3 frame as he played a central role on set pieces. Taking advantage of his height and athletics ability, Sigurdsson scored the Chants first goal of the season against eventual national runner-up UNC Charlotte. He also provided an assist during the Chants' 6-0 rout of rival Winthrop to tally three points on the season.

This season, Sigurdsson will be heavily relied upon to lead the Chanticleer defense that must replace 2011 Big South Defensive Player of the Year Cyprian Hedrick and three-year starting goalkeeper Scott Angevine, both of whom signed professional contracts with Major League Soccer's Sporting KC.