WASHINGTON – The American University men's soccer team was proud to honor graduate student Cooper Nunn as the recipient of the 2024 Doug Dugan Excellence Award during a special presentation last week. The award, named in memory of AU soccer alumnus Doug Dugan '81, recognizes a player who exemplifies the attitudes and attributes of leadership, excellence, and selflessness, qualities that Dugan embodied both on and off the field.

The Dugan family has been an integral part of the AU men’s soccer community, showing their support through a $25,000 planned gift in Doug’s memory. In addition, Dugan’s teammates rallied in an effort to match the planned gift dollar-for-dollar, further demonstrating the impact of Doug’s legacy on the Eagles soccer program.

"The importance of who Doug Dugan was really speaks to the meaning of this award," Nunn said. "To be the one chosen to receive it is a high honor, especially considering there are so many guys on the team who could have won it. I’m truly grateful to have been selected."

Head coach Zach Samol praised Nunn’s contributions to the team, on and off the pitch, and expressed his gratitude to the Dugan family for their continued support.

"Congratulations to Cooper Nunn for being selected as the 2024 Doug Dugan award winner. This is a special award that recognizes Nunn's work both on and off the field for our program," Samol said. "I want to thank the entire Dugan family for their support with this award and the memory of Doug, and especially want to thank Deb for all she does for AU men's soccer. We love her support."

The Doug Dugan Excellence Award was established to honor the life and legacy of Doug Dugan, who passed away in 2016. His family, former teammates, and friends remember him as a dedicated teammate, high-quality player, and a selfless individual whose spirit and perseverance continue to inspire the Eagles soccer community.

To support the men’s soccer program in honor of Doug, click here.

DOUG DUGAN EXCELLENCE AWARD WINNERS

2024 - Cooper Nunn

2023 - Evan Schweickert

2022 - Jerry Zouantcha

2020-21 Nick Dimitrijevic

2019 - Oscar McConnell

2018 - Tim Neumann

2017 - Panos Nakhid