RENO, Nev. – A key defensive showing in Reno’s back four earned Zach Carroll Defensive Player of the Year honors Wednesday.

Carroll earned the team award after an impressive first season in the Biggest Little City.

From the moment he made his debut with Reno against Portland Timbers 2 on April 21, Carroll became an integral part of the club’s Starting XI.

Following his debut, Reno went on a 16-match unbeaten streak that featured six clean sheets (shutouts). Carroll, who spent last season with Orlando City B, also showed his offensive prowess during Reno’s record-setting run.

Carroll headed in a goal June 16 at Orange County SC in the opening minutes of the 2-2 draw. He also headed home the second goal of Reno’s 2-0 home win over Tulsa Roughnecks FC on Sept. 29.

Carroll finished the year leading the team in clearances (155), tied for second in blocks (15) and aerial duels won (76).

2018 STATS

• 30 appearances
• 28 starts
• 2,597 minutes played
• 155 clearances (led team)
• 52 interceptions
• 15 blocks
• 71 percent tackle success rate