Nov. 30, 2006

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - Sophomore midfielder Dejan Jakovic and senior forward Jerson Monteiro were tabbed All-Midwest Region performers by the National Soccer Coaches Association of America, as announced on Nov. 30. Jakovic was the eighth player in program history to earn first team all-region honors, while Monteiro was tabbed to the second team.

"We are certainly very proud of the type of season Dejan and Jerson had," UAB head coach Mike Getman said. "They both meant so much to us and were big contributors to our success on the year. They are certainly deserving of this honor and we are happy that other coaches recognize the quality of players they are."

With two honorees on the squads, UAB tied for the third-most players from one school to earn the accolade. SMU led all schools with five, while Creighton had three. Additionally, it is the eighth time over the last 13 years that UAB has had two more members on the all-region squad.

Jakovic, who was a first team All-Conference USA honoree earlier this season, began the season in the defense, where he helped UAB to two shutouts in its first three games. Jakovic then showed his versatility, making the move to attacking midfielder. Jakovic finished the season by accounting for one goal and four assists, which ranked fourth on the squad with six points during the season.

Monteiro had a career season for the Blazers in 2006. The Houston, Texas native led the team in goals (14), assists (7) and points (35) on the campaign. The 14 goals tied for fourth-most in a season in school history, while his 35points were fifth-best in UAB lore. Furthermore, the first team all-conference honoree closed his career with 34 goals and 84 points during his outstanding career.