Three Johnnies Named to All-Region Teams

12/7/2021 2:26:00 PM | Men's Soccer

Gavran, Bartlett and Knapp recognized by United Soccer Coaches

By: Andrew O'Connell

QUEENS, N.Y. (Dec. 7, 2021) – After leading the Red Storm to a third place finish in the BIG EAST and the 22nd NCAA Tournament appearance in program history, three Johnnies have received All-East Region honors from United Soccer Coaches. Luka Gavran found a spot on the First Team, Lucas Bartlett earned a place on the Second Team and Brandon Knapp garnered Third Team honors.

All three of the Red Storm's honorees played a role in helping the Red Storm solidify a reputation as one of the nation's top defensive units. Through games played in the NCAA Quarterfinals, St. John's ranks sixth nationally in team goals against average (0.63) and first in shutout percentage (0.60).

Gavran became just the third player in program history to be named BIG EAST Goalkeeper of the Year, earning the award after going 11-6-3 with a 0.57 goals against average and a .844 save percentage, the former of which ranks third nationally and the latter of which leads Division I. Gavran's 12 shutouts are also the highest total in the NCAA and are tied for third on the program's single-season record list. Gavran surrendered no more than two goals in a game this season and allowed multiple goals just three times, two of which came against nationally ranked foes (No. 6 Clemson and No. 1 Oregon State).

Bartlett needed only one season with the Johnnies to make his mark on the program. A graduate transfer from Drake, Bartlett earned selection to the All-BIG EAST First Team after starting all 20 games at center back and helping the Red Storm post the BIG EAST's top goals against average and highest shutout total. In addition to anchoring the Johnnies in the defensive end of the pitch, Bartlett was also one of the team's top offensive producers, scoring five goals, three of which were game-winners, and dishing out three assists.

Also a pick for the All-BIG EAST First Team, Knapp played a variety of roles for the Red Storm in his fourth year with the program. The three-time all-conference honoree spent time at forward, midfield and on the back line, helping the Red Storm pitch 12 shutouts in addition to posting a team-high 16 points. He scored five goals, four of which were game-winners, and finished one off the conference lead with six assists. The Abingdon, Md., native scored the game-winner for the Red Storm in the first round of the NCAA Tournament, helping the Red Storm advance in the NCAA Tournament for the 14^th time in program history.