Cobleskill, NY – The SUNY Cobleskill Athletic Department has named senior
Amber MacNeil (Hoosick Falls, NY) the 20240-25 Sportswoman of the Year, honoring the dual-sport athlete from the Fighting Tiger women's basketball and soccer teams at the annual Athletics Awards Ceremony held earlier this May.
The Sportswoman of the Year award is presented to the female student-athlete who best exemplifies sportsmanship and leadership through her actions in competition, in the classroom, and throughout the campus community.
As one of the leaders on both teams, MacNeil made a lasting impact that extended far beyond the game. A Dean's List student in every semester of her Cobleskill career, she has been actively involved in the Dairy Cattle Club and Dairy Judging Team while also earning North Atlantic Conference (NAC) All-Academic honors in both sports.
This past season, MacNeil served as a steady presence for a record-breaking women's basketball team that posted the program's first undefeated home record, captured its first NAC Championship, and made its first NCAA Tournament appearance.
Fighting Tiger Head Women's Basketball Coach
Megan Bowman praised MacNeil's resilience and leadership:
"While Amber's playing career was often cut short or challenged due to a plague of injuries, her work ethic, positivity, and willingness to do for others never wavered. It would have been easier for Amber to walk away from sports and focus on her impressive academic resume, but Amber refused to ever pick easy. She showed up every day for the betterment of her team and was involved in any way she could, even if hindered to the sideline. Amber defines what it means to be a selfless leader."
Interim Head Women's Soccer Coach Lucia Liverio echoed those sentiments:
"In every game, Amber's actions speak louder than her words. Her unwavering respect for opponents, commitment to her team, and grace in both victory and defeat embody the true spirit of sportsmanship. This award is a testament to her character and the positive influence she has had on her team and community."
