KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Maryland men's soccer student-athlete Ben Bender was named a first-team All-American by the United Soccer Coaches, the organization announced Thursday night. 

The United Soccer Coaches previously selected Bender as a first-team All-Region selection. He was named a semifinalist for the MAC Hermann Trophy and was recently invited to the MLS College Showcase. 

The 2021 Big Ten Midfielder of the Year, Bender was a dominant force this season leading the Terps in goals (7) and assists (5). He was a unanimous first-team All-Big Ten selection and he was picked as the Big Ten Offensive Player of the Week twice this season. The Baltimore, Md., native scored in five consecutive matches, the longest streak by a Maryland player since MAC Hermann Trophy award winner Jason Garey in 2005. 

He also contributed to Maryland's defensive efforts as the Terps gave up just 14 goals in 18 matches. Bender burst onto the scene as a freshman in the 2020 season, earning All-Big Ten Second Team and Freshman Team honors.  

Bender is Maryland's first United Soccer Coaches All-American since Donovan Pines was a second team pick in 2018. The Terps' last first-team selections were Alex Crognale and Gordon Wild in 2016. 

Maryland First Team All-Americans (United Soccer Coaches)
Ben Bender, MF, 2021
Alex Crognale, D, 2016
Gordon Wild, F, 2016
Patrick Mullins, F, 2012, '13
Matt Kassel, MF, 2010
Zac MacMath, GK, 2010
Omar Gonzalez, D, 2008
Maurice Edu, MF, 2006
Jason Garey, F, 2005
Scott Buete, MF, 2003
Sumed Ibrahim, MF, 2002, '03
Leo Cullen, MF, 1997
Gary Furlong, F, 1986
Rasim Tugberk, IL, 1969 
Mario Jelencovich, GK, 1968
Giancalo Bradoni, CHB, 1967, `68
Roy Eales, LHB, 1964
Jim Belt, CF, 1947, '48
Kenneth Ports, LFB, 1941
Fritz Maisel, GK, 1940 
Charley Ernst, OL, 1939, `40