Written By Rev. Justin C. Jackson

On a rainy November afternoon at SaberCat Stadium, North American University honored three remarkable seniors—Andrew Gonzalez, William Ours, and Ryota Ishizuka. These players have left an indelible mark on the Stallions' program, embodying the grit and dedication that define NAU soccer. Despite the 41-minute rain delay that dampened the field, spirits remained high as NAU took on LSU Alexandria, who ultimately claimed a 5-0 victory.

Game Summary:

LSU Alexandria wasted no time getting on the scoreboard after the rain subsided. The Generals found their rhythm quickly, with Charlie Moore netting the first goal at the 13:34 mark, followed by Alfie Lee and Sorley Youngs, who helped LSU take a commanding 3-0 lead by halftime.

The Stallions fought hard through the second half, battling both LSU Alexandria's aggressive offense and the slick conditions. LSU Alexandria capitalized again in the 55th minute, with Lee scoring his second goal, and Tony Rivas rounded out the scoring with a late goal at 76:49, assisted by Adam Sherwood, ending the match 5-0.

NAU Standouts:

While the Stallions couldn't find the back of the net, senior midfielder William Ours and Pedro Ortega were relentless in their attempts, with Ortega registering the team's only shot on goal. Defensively, senior captain Andrew Gonzalez showed his fighting spirit, making crucial stops and receiving a yellow card late in the game—a testament to his unwavering dedication to the team until the final whistle.

Goalkeepers Hold the Line:

Tian Capilla and Gino Burioni stood tall in goal despite the downpour and the Generals' persistent attack. Capilla made three saves in the first half, and Burioni stepped in for the second half with four saves, showcasing determination in a tough matchup.

A Tough Farewell:

Though the scoreboard didn't favor NAU, Senior Day was a celebration of Gonzalez, Ours, and Ishizuka. These three seniors have been the backbone of the Stallions, setting a standard of resilience and leadership for future players. Their commitment, both on and off the field, leaves a legacy that will inspire their teammates long after they've moved on.

Coach's Remarks:

After the match, Coach reflected on the challenges the team faced with both the weather and the opposition, but praised the seniors for their leadership and resolve. "This was their day, and we're proud of all they've done to get us here," he said. "Each of these players has contributed to this program's growth and has left a mark we won't soon forget."

As Senior Day marks the end of an era, the Stallions will build on the foundation set by Gonzalez, Ours, and Ishizuka, pushing forward with the same heart and dedication they've demonstrated every day.