ONEONTA, N.Y. — Junior defender Katelyn Klotz (South Glens Falls, N.Y.) has been named the 2025 Empire 8 Defensive Player of the Year, as voted on by the conference's head coaches.

A dynamic two-way presence, Klotz turned in a stellar junior campaign that cemented her as one of the conference's premier players. From her defensive post, she tallied a career-high 16 goals to lead the Hawks, while adding five assists for a team-high 37 points on the season.

A model of consistency, Klotz was held without a point in just two games and closed her breakout season with goals in five straight contests. She ranked third in the conference in both goals and points — the highest totals among all defenders by a wide margin.

Anchoring Hartwick's backline, Klotz played a crucial role for a defensive unit that allowed just 1.35 goals per game and only seven goals in conference play. Her combination of lockdown defense and transition ability made her a constant threat and headache for opposing squads, often sparking the attack straight from the defensive zone.

Katelyn Klotz becomes just the second player in program history to receive the prestigious accolade.In addition to her Defensive Player of the Year honor, Klotz earned her second Empire 8 All-Conference selection and was named to the First Team for the first time in her career.

Empire 8 Release

About Hartwick College:
Hartwick, often referred to as The Life Balance College, is a private liberal arts and sciences institution in Oneonta, N.Y. Through its distinctive FlightPath approach, Hartwick blends academic excellence, career preparation and an active campus life to help students achieve a balanced and fulfilling college experience. With transparent tuition and a focus on health and wellness, Hartwick prepares students for lifelong success—both professionally and personally.