Barson Named 'Team Linchpin' by College Soccer News

AKRON, Ohio – Chad Barson, a junior defender and team co-captain on The No. 4 University of Akron men's soccer team, was one of 25 players singled out nationally by College Soccer News this week.

The on-line publication recognized Barson as one of 25 Team Linchpins, a player "whose efforts don't necessarily show up in the statistics but who is indispensable to the team and ... has a big impact on the team's performance. These are the guys that make good things happen and make everyone around them much better players. They are what we prefer to call them team linchpins in that they are often the glue that holds everything together."

Barson, who has started every match of his collegiate career (56 games and counting), is a team captain – along with Scott Caldwell – and the leader of the Zips' defense from his center back position.

According to College Soccer News, "Playing next to current professionals Zarek Valentin, Kofi Sarkodie and Chris Korb in 2009 and 2010 meant that Barson was often lost in the shuffle when it came to attention or accolades, but his consistent play has been a key to Akron's success."

Ever since Barson stepped on the field as a true freshman in 2009, the Zips have posted a record of 49-2-5 while allowing just 25 goals in 56 matches. During that time, Barson has contributed to 37 shutouts while playing a crucial role on a team that has allowed two or more goals just five times with him in uniform.

Barson and the Zips (4-0-2) will be in action tonight at Tulsa. Kick off is slated for 8 p.m. (ET)