DAVIS, Calif. – After enjoying an incredible career for UC Davis women's water polo, Sophia Noble was recognized for her outstanding achievements outside of the pool as she received the Big West Service and Leadership award, announced Tuesday by league officials.
 
This award is bestowed upon a student-athlete that participates in a Big West sponsored sport and who engages consistently in service and leadership activities that impact the campus, community, or regional levels. The awardee makes the most of opportunities presented to them by taking on key roles and is innovative in seeking out meaningful service and leadership opportunities, while keeping their academic eligibility on their respective team.
 
Noble was selected as team captain for her final season as an Aggie and served as the President of the UC Davis Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) for two years.
 
Noble's resilience and determination was put on display when she received the UC Davis Sarah Sumpter Perseverance award for the 2022-23 season, which is presented to an athlete who has overcome a significant obstacle to return to competition. The award is earned by those who have shown perseverance after a life-altering circumstance while providing hope and inspiration for others who face similar situations.
 
Noble earned the award for her outstanding comeback season as the Aggies' goalkeeper when she reached a career milestone as she became the UC Davis all-time saves leader, finishing with 748 stops in her five years. Noble racked up a career-best 254 saves and 24 steals in the 2023 season. With an average of 8.8 saves-per-game, she registered double-digit saves in 12 contests, including a career-high 17 saves in the March 16 win over No. 19 Indiana. Noble was tabbed as an All-Big West honorable mention following her great season.