Maja Lardner and Melissa Riggins, Georgetown University's standout student-athletes, have been awarded the BIG EAST Sport Excellence Awards for their exceptional performances in academics, athletics, and community service. Lardner, a top player in women's soccer, celebrated her second consecutive year as BIG EAST Offensive Player of the Year and was also named the 2026 BIG EAST Female Scholar-Athlete of the Year. Riggins, an accomplished runner in women's cross country, won the BIG EAST 6k individual title and the 1,500m at the BIG EAST Outdoor Championships, further solidifying her status as a leader in her sport.

By the Numbers
  • Lardner scored 14 goals and provided 3 assists in her last soccer season.
  • Riggins recorded a 6k time of 19:47.7 to win the BIG EAST title.
Yes, But

While both athletes excelled on the field and in the classroom, the competition for these awards is intense, with numerous outstanding candidates vying for recognition across various sports.

State of Play
  • Lardner continues to enhance her academic profile while leading in women's soccer.
  • Riggins is preparing for upcoming competitions, building on her achievements from the past season.
What's Next

Both athletes will look to leverage their awards as they advance their careers, with hopes of continued success in their respective sports and academics.

Bottom Line

Lardner and Riggins exemplify the ideal balance of student-athlete excellence, proving that high achievement both on and off the field is attainable and commendable.