Cardinal field hockey senior Jess Zutz was honored for her playing this year when she was selected to play in the National Field Hockey Coaches Association’s All-Star Game on Nov. 17 at the University of Maryland. Zutz, a forward, was one of 38 players selected from across the country.

Zutz’ play has been crucial in leading Stanford to its best season in recent years — she leads the team in goals (eight), game-winning goals (three) and points (20). A native of Wilmington, Del., Zutz is also second on the team in assists (four) and shots taken (45). She has been named NorPac Offensive Player of the Week twice this year.

“Jess has had an outstanding career,” head coach Lesley Irvine told GoStanford.com. “We are thrilled she is being recognized at this level. Jess is truly a great player.”

It is not all over yet for the four-year starter, however. Zutz looks to lead the Cardinal to its first NCAA Tournament berth in years; the team is currently 8-6 overall and 4-1 in NorPac play.

Swimmers do Cardinal proud

Competing halfway across the world, former Stanford swimmer Russell Bal ‘03 captured three gold medals this past weekend at the FINA World Cup meet in Durban, South Africa.

Bal dominated the backstroke events with times of 23.79 in the 50 meter, 51.13 in the 100 and 1:53.15 in the 200. For his outstanding performance, he was named the “Most Valuable Performer” of the meet. Bal now leads the World Cup Standings; the next event on the 2007 World Cup circuit takes place Oct. 27-28 in Singapore.

In other news, senior swimmer Noa Sakamoto also represented the Cardinal well when he competed in the 10K event at the 2007 World Championship Trials in Fort Myers, Fla. Sakamoto came in fifth place with a time of 1:57.19, qualifying for the U.S. Open Water national team in the process.

Chad LaTourette, a recruit for the class of 2013, finished one place ahead of Sakamoto with his mark of 1:57.15. Hailing from Mission Viejo, Calif., LaTourette has already signed with Stanford.

— Jack Salisbury