ALISO VIEJO, CA- The Soka University Lions dropped their Senior Game against the UC Merced Bobcats 1-0 on Sunday afternoon, bringing their overall record to 5-7-3 and 3-3-3 in Cal Pac Conference play.

The two sides remained level until the 70^th minute when the Bobcats' Trinidad Quiroz found herself with the ball around 30 yards from goal. She took the shot from distance and converted her chance, netting the game-winner.

Soka's Alex Bershtein, Taylor Hampton, and Kamry Aragon each had looks on frame to challenge UC Merced's goalkeeper, but despite the Lions' efforts, they were unable to equalize.  

"Great efforts today from the entire team," said Head Coach Wendy Espejel. "They left everything they had on the field. We knew coming in it would be a challenging game- but the team left their hearts out on the field- which is always a great way to honor the seniors on the team tonight!"

 Next, the Lions travel to Embry Riddle Aeronautical University on Saturday, October 21, 2024. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. MT/12 p.m. PT.

                                                                                                                                                           

Before the start of the match, Soka honored its two graduating seniors: Abby Stallworth and Alex Bershtein.

Abby Stallworth: "Abby's concentration at Soka is environmental studies. She will pursue a Master's Degree in Public Health and hopes to work as an environmental consultant after graduating from Soka. She had the opportunity to study abroad in Barcelona and had a blast living and learning in Spain. Stallworth has played both center back and has been a key piece of our attack over the last few years. She currently has three career goals and one career assist, with a highlight being a great finish off of a header into the goal to give us the lead against Providence Christian. Abby shared that one of her highlights was living and playing with some of the greatest people she has ever met, and she would like to thank her parents, sister, and current and former coaches and teammates. One thing that Abby takes with her is the knowledge of the challenges she is capable of overcoming and the support system she has found in her teammates and athletic community. Congratulations Abby- we wish you the best!" –Head Coach, Wendy Espejel

Alex Bershtein: "Alex is studying Social and Behavioral Sciences and recently returned from studying abroad in Valencia, Spain. Alex has been a pivotal part of this program, bringing a competitive edge to practice and games daily. Her work ethic and technical ability have allowed her to be a versatile player who has played both an attacker and an outside back. She earned a captain's role for her leadership on the field and her commitment to give 100% at all times. Alex was named Cal Pac honorable mention, Cal Pac player of the week, and Soka's Female scholar athlete twice throughout her four years. After Soka, Alex is looking to either take a gap year and travel or attend CSU Long Beach for a Master's in Sports Psychology. Alex will miss the yearly talent show, and she would like to thank her family, coaches, teammates, and friends for making her the player and person she is today. Alex- thank you for your commitment and leadership. Congratulations and best of luck!" –Head Coach Wendy Espejel