ALISO VIEJO, CA- The Soka University Lions hosted the La Sierra Golden Eagles in their final game of the 2021 season, dropping the match 2-1, and ending the season with an overall record of 6-10, and finishing second in the Cal Pac Conference's South pod with a 3-3 record.

The Golden Eagles netted an early goal, scoring at the 1:25 minute mark, and tallied their second goal in the 60^th minute.

Soka's Cienna Irwin put the Lions on the scoreboard in the 61^st minute. The goals stemmed from a well-crafted set-piece between Araceli Soto-Garcia and Irwin. Soto-Garcia slipped Irwin the ball outside the 18-yard box, and Irwin fired her shot high into the back post, tallying her first career goal for Soka.

"The team played their hearts out today," said Head Coach Wendy Espejel. "It was not the way we envisioned our season ending, but it will give us fire to come back next year and make a statement. We are beyond proud of each senior on this team and the energy they brought day in and day out. They will always be part of the Soka soccer family. We continue to move forward- Go Lions!"

Before the match, the women's soccer program honored their six seniors Jenna Jensen, Iris Cox, Jackie Osuna, Renee Parado, Merina Addonigio, and Ashley Bustamante, in a ceremony celebrating their successes on the field, in the classroom, and throughout their communities.

Jenna Jensen- Jenna is a four-year varsity letter winner for the Lions. She played in 45 games, scoring one goal and assisting in three. "Jenna has been very consistent for the Lions. Her strengths include staying calm on the ball and reading the play to shut down an opposing attack. In addition to being a solid player in the midfield, Jenna stepped in and played in goal during our final game for the 2019-2020 season and made eight saves. We appreciate Jenna and her commitment to this team. We wish her the best in the future, and we will miss her dearly." – Head Coach Wendy Espejel

Iris Cox- Iris is a four-year varsity letter winner for the Lions. She played in 44 games and totaled four goals and three assists in her career. "Iris has been a versatile player on the wing as both an outside back, forward, and central defender. Her fitness and technical skill have allowed her to be a dangerous player in many areas on the field. We want to thank Iris for her dynamic role on the women's soccer team, and we want to wish her the best of luck in all of her future endeavors." – Head Coach Wendy Espejel

Renee Parado- Renee is a four-year varsity letter winner for the Lions. She played in 40 games during her career and scored four goals while tallying six assists. "Renee has been an instrumental part of our defensive line and has also developed into a dangerous attacking player when higher on the pitch. She has a contagiously positive and social personality that we will dearly miss. Renee has had an immense impact on this program. We want to thank her for her dedication to this team during her time at Soka." – Head Coach Wendy Espejel

Jackie Osuna- Jackie is a four-year varsity letter winner for the Lions. She played in 17 games and scored one goal and one assist in her career. "While having sustained numerous injuries, Jackie continues to show determination in every situation she faces. She has been a great support system off the field and has helped many players develop on the field. Jackie has helped strengthen the midfield with her constant communication and technical ability. We would like to wish Jackie the best in her future." – Head Coach Wendy Espejel

Merina Addonigio- Merina is a four-year varsity letter winner for the Lions. She played in 45 matches and tallied four assists and two goals in her career. "Merina has been a strong and versatile defender for the Soka women's soccer team. As a defender, she loves to attack. Additionally, her passion for the game and competitive spirit really set the tone for both practices and games. Merina has been a consistent player for the Lions, and we will miss having her on the pitch. Merina is also part of our Student-Athlete Advisory Committee and serves as a Cal Pac S.A.C. executive council member. We wish Merina the best in her future." – Head Coach Wendy Espejel

Ashley Bustamante- Ashley is a four-year varsity letter winner for the Lions. She played in 43 matches for Soka and made 180 career saves. "Ashley has been a two-year captain for Soka and has played a pivotal role in our success. As a goalkeeper, she earned her team's trust and played a significant role in the leadership on and off the field. Ashley is currently part of Soka's Student-Athlete Advisory Committee and an active member of A.Y.S.O.'s VIP program in our community. We want to wish Ashley the best of luck and thank her for her leadership on this team." – Head Coach Wendy Espejel