University of Minnesota Duluth's soccer senior Emilie Ling has been named the NSIC Elite 18 Award winner for women's soccer. Ling was presented the award during the pregame of the UMD semifinal match at the NSIC Tournament, which is taking place at The Pitch in Mankato, Minnesota. 

The native of Shoreview, Minnesota is majoring in biology and has compiled a 4.00 cumulative grade-point average. Ling is a graduate of Totino-Grace High School and has appeared in nine matches over two seasons with the Bulldogs. She has recorded 148 minutes of playing time, including 71 minutes in four appearances during the 2026 season.

As part of the NSIC 25th Anniversary celebration during the 2016-17 academic year, the NSIC Elite 18 Award was instituted to recognize the true essence of the student-athlete by honoring the individual who has reached the pinnacle of competition at the NSIC Championship level in their sport, while also achieving the highest academic standard among their peers. The NSIC Elite 18 award is presented to the student-athlete with the highest cumulative grade-point average participating at the finals site for each of the NSIC's 18 Championships.

Ling is the first UMD soccer player to earn the award.