« Men’s Soccer 2013

John Berner

School
SIUE
Position
Goalkeeper
Major
Exercise Science
GAA
0.88
W-L-T
5-5-1

Classroom

Berner has excelled both athletically and academically during his time at SIUE.  He currently carries a 3.34 grade point average, majoring in exercise science.  He was named to the Missouri Valley Conference Honor Roll for the 2012-13 school year, and was also honored on the MVC Scholar-Athlete First Team.  Berner has made the Dean’s List in all three years he’s studied at SIUE.

Character

Both on and off the field, Berner has exemplified character traits that have separated him and made him a role model.  Peers, instructors, and administrators alike have recognized Berner for attributes such as accountability, consistency, and possessing a level demeanor.  He’s been involved in numerous organizations at SIUE and has been influential within his university community.  Berner was a member of the school’s Student-Athlete Academic Committee in 2011, and has served within SIUE’s Leadership Development Program for the past two years.  He’s also been an active member of the staff at SIUE Soccer Camps during his time with the Cougars, and served as the camp’s Director of Operations in 2013.  In addition to training young goalkeepers at the camp, Berner organized drills, communicated with coaches, and monitored resident campers.

Community

During his time in Edwardsville, Berner has made an impact in his community in a variety of ways.  Over the past three years, he has made time in the busy schedule of a Division I student-athlete to volunteer at St. Louis Children’s Hospital.  Having assisted at the hospital since 2010, Berner interacts with young patients in the hospital’s play room.  He also monitors the patients and keeps the room clean during the time it’s opened.  Berner has also been involved in various events for Special Olympics, instructing the athletes and helping to create a positive environment for all those involved.

Competition

On the pitch, Berner had a standout 2012 season for the Cougars, being honored as the Missouri Valley Conference Goalkeeper of the Year.  The St. Louis native was also named a first-team All-MVC performer, posting a 10-4 record that included four shutouts.  Berner was among the MVC’s best in goal, putting up a 0.86 goals against average along with a .789 save percentage.  In 14 starts, he made 45 saves on 57 shots.  Berner was instrumental in leading the Cougars to an appearance in the MVC Tournament Final.  In 2013, Berner will serve as captain for SIUE.