Riverside—The UC Riverside Athletics Department held its annual end-of-year Scotty Awards on Thursday evening, and Women's Soccer player Kyra Taylor was named the female recipient of the Iron Highlander Award.

The Iron Highlander is presented each year to the male and female student-athlete whose dedication, work ethic during workouts and in the weight room are deemed most outstanding.

From Head Strength & Conditioning Coach Gary Heron: "A lot of people think the Iron Highlander award is won by doing extra—extra workouts, coming in on holidays and summer breaks—but that isn't the case. It's about how you do your work and that is why Kyra Taylor is so deserving of the Iron Highlander award. 

"In my 10 years of coaching, I don't think I've had anyone work as hard and improve as much in the weight room from their freshmen to sophomore year. She comes in every day, gives her best effort, and is a leader on her team for it. 

"I thoroughly enjoy coaching her each and every day, and can't wait to see how good she becomes by her senior year."