After consecutive All-Big East Third Team selections in 2010 and 2011, Samantha Dodd reached the pinnacle of individual achievement May 8, chosen to the All-Big East First Team along with teammates Kirsten Verdun and Mary Connolly.

“It’s a wonderful feeling to go out like this in your senior year,” said Dodd, senior outfielder. “This was something I wanted to accomplish and it took me four years.”

Dodd finished the 2013 season 12th in the Big East in batting average at .385. The Fontana, Calif. native, recorded 67 hits with a home run and 21 RBIs.

Verdun, a junior, was selected to her third first-team in the Big East in as many years.

“When nobody from DePaul was called up for All-Big East second and third teams, I was getting a little nervous,” said Verdun, chosen as a pitcher-utility player. “People were going to think we all showed up for nothing.”

Fortunately for Verdun and DePaul’s contingent and the Big East awards banquet, this was not the case. On the mound, Verdun compiled a 23-12 record with a 1.88 ERA, striking out 248 batters on the season. Behind the plate, Verdun batted .365 with eight home runs and 36 RBIs.

“This third time means a lot to me because consistency is the name of the game,” said Verdun. “It shows I’m continuing to improve in becoming a better player.

“This doesn’t happen to any of us without the help of our teammates and coaches.”

After making the All-Big East third team last season, Connolly was chosen as the league’s best designated player.

“It’s a great feeling to know all the hard work you do in practice every day pays off,” said Connolly. “It’s an honor that comes to you because of how well you and your team have performed this season.”