Duke freshman Cecil wins award as nation’s top female tennis player

Duke’s Cecil wins award as top tennis player

NEW YORK — NCAA tennis champion Mallory Cecil of Duke has been honored as the nation’s top female college player in her sport.

The freshman from Spartanburg, S.C., won the Honda Sports Award on Monday. It is given annually to women in 12 NCAA sports.

Cecil had a 32-4 record in leading Duke to the NCAA team title. She beat out three other finalists — Aurelija Miseviciute of Arkansas, Maria Mosolova of Northwestern and Laura Vallverdu of Miami.

Cecil is eligible for the Honda-Broderick Cup, given to the college female athlete of the year. The winner will be announced June 22 in New York.